6 Leadership Keys from the Andy Griffith Show

I grew up whistling the opening tune to the Andy Griffith Show every weekday afternoon as it came on television at 4:00 pm. I didn't want to miss one episode of Mayberry's small town Sheriff, Andy, along with his infamous Deputy, Barney Fife and the eclectic group of support characters as they handled "life" together.

As I sadly learned of Andy Griffith's passing away, I began replaying various stand-out episodes of his show in my head and identifying several of the leadership qualities depicted in his program. So, as a fan and proud owner of the Andy Griffith Show DVD library, here are just a few principles that stand-out to me.

Share the Glory 
        Barney Fife, Andy's goofy Deputy side-kick, was always messing up. But Andy found 
        a way of sharing, and even deflecting some of his own recognition back onto 
        Barney. Leaders look for opportunities to share acknowledgment with others.
             > When was the last time you shared or deflected your credit to someone else?

Exercise Patience
        Barney's antics and juvenile arrogance were always getting him in trouble and 
        creating more work for Andy to clean up.  However, Andy chose to keep working 
        with Barney. Leaders know that people aren't to be treated as 'disposable tools,' but 
        as team members who are in the process of personal discovery and development.
             > Are you allowing people the time and opportunity needed to grow-forward? 

Intentionally Mentor 
        Barney was regularly creating chaos. His problem solving skills were inept and his 
        hunger for praise was enormous, which was the exact combination that made 
        Barney so fun to watch! However, Andy had to regularly find ways to redirect 
        Barney's mindset without damaging his heart. Leaders know how to to steer a team 
        member's attitude and mindset without berating their heart and spirit.
             > Are people under your leadership growing from your personal input? 

Constructive Confrontation
        There were many (hilarious) times when Barney's law-keeping authority and 
        responsibilities were totally out-of-control - misrepresenting Andy and the office of 
        Law Enforcement. At those times, Andy vividly and specifically expressed his 
        passionate frustration with Barney and disciplined him - leaving no question of what
        he did wrong and how he was to correct it. Leaders strongly confront destructive 
        choices/behavior, clarify/re-align proper thinking and enforce the appropriate 
        consequences.
             > Does your confrontation come across as an 'attack' or as 'correction'? 

Dignify Others
        Goober, the local gas station attendant and mechanic, was another colorful 
        character that made frequent appearances. He talked funny, looked funnier, was 
        socially ignorant and had a tender-heart. Yet, Andy embraced and encouraged 
        Goober. Like Andy... leaders are distributors of dignity. They intentionally 
        exercise their opportunity to celebrate and encourage people from every sect, 
        background and walk of life, without the fear of 'indignity' or lost reputation.
              > Are you taking opportunity to dignify people from all sects of society?

Seek Wisdom
        Aunt Bee, Andy's aunt that lived with he and Opie (Andy's son), frequently made 
        passing comments that inspired Andy. At other times, Andy specifically asked Aunt 
        Bee for her opinion. Leaders know that they need additional perspective; they seek 
        it out and use it to lead forward.
             > Who's voice helps to expand your perspective, removing blind spots?

At the end of each episode, Andy's leadership was the glue that held Mayberry, North Carolina together. Although He never flaunted his authority, Andy's solid character and presence created all the impact necessary to lead and protect his diverse community of individuals. I think we can all learn a thing or two from Andy.

(Whistling the closing tune to the show...)