Create balcony space

Mike Bonem Nov. 3, 2019

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One of the most important roles for people in senior leadership (first or second chairs) is to define and cast vision and develop the strategies that will support the vision. And one of the most neglected jobs for many senior leaders is casting vision and developing strategy.

I rarely meet a leader who argues with the first sentence about the importance of this role. So why is it so often neglected? Because the stream of day-to-day demands crowds out the time that is required for this kind of higher-level work. That is why intentionally creating balcony space is frequently offered advice.

Leadership lecturer Ronald Heifetz coined the phrase “balcony space.” The image is of a person escaping a crowded dance floor, where it is hard to see anything beyond one’s immediate context and moving to the balcony to obtain a better view of the entire ball. 

This kind of higher and broader perspective is essential for visionary and strategic work. You can’t see or think about the big picture when you’re engulfed in a sea of immediate issues that demand your attention. 

How can a leader create balcony space? Here are five simple tips to help you move upstairs. 

1. Put it on the calendar. Don’t wait for the day when “things will be quieter” so you can go to the balcony. It won’t happen. Put your balcony time on the calendar. It should be at least a half-day (preferably more) and at least once a quarter. Treat it like any other very important appointment that will only be cancelled for a real emergency. 

2. Invite someone. Ask another leader, your entire leadership team, or a trusted colleague to go to the balcony with you. You’ll be more creative and the accountability will keep you from cancelling.

3. Hand-off your daily duties. There are other staff or colleagues who can handle the regular activities and even unexpected emergencies, so you can do your vital balcony work. It’s no different from planning for how things would be covered while on vacation.

4. Leave the balcony work with a plan. A balcony session should clarify vision and set priorities. This needs to be communicated to your church or organization and translated into action. When it does, the positive impact will make you want to return to the balcony. 

5. Don’t apologize. Some leaders feel guilty for taking time away to go to the balcony, as if they’re skipping out on “real work.” This is your job, so don’t apologize for doing it. 

What’s keeping your from scheduling a time to go to the balcony?

Photo source: istock 

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Mike Bonem is an author, consultant, speaker, church leader, businessperson, husband and father. He has an MBA from Harvard Business School and a breadth of experience in ministry and business, including 11 years as an executive pastor, consulting with Fortune 100 companies, and leading a start-up business. This article was first published on MikeBonem.com. Used with permission. Learn More »

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