# Embracing Imperfection: How to Lead with Excellence
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Chapter 1: The Beauty of Imperfection
On a sweltering day in Florence in 1501, I found myself accompanying a young artist to his workshop. My time machine, unfortunately, lacked a USB port, so I was left without my iPhone, relying solely on memories of that vibrant city. The cobbled streets were challenging to navigate, especially with the young artist's brisk pace. The air was filled with the mixed aromas of food and the less pleasant scents of the era, underscoring the lively chaos of Renaissance Florence.
My guide was none other than Michelangelo, a 26-year-old on the brink of monumental fame. His rivalry with the renowned Leonardo da Vinci was palpable. “He’s just a show-off,” Michelangelo remarked with a smirk when I inquired about Leonardo. “He never meets deadlines, lost in his quest for perfection, and someday people will realize his works are merely sketches lacking context.”
While I refrained from arguing, it was evident that both artists, with their imperfections, had left a significant mark on history.
A Giant Marble Block
Inside the workshop, a colossal marble block towered, at least six meters tall, marred by stains and chips from years of exposure. I initially thought it was beyond repair. Yet, when I voiced my concerns, Michelangelo shot me a bemused glance. “Can’t you see the potential?” he asked, grinning. “This marble holds a secret within. I simply need to chisel away the excess to reveal it,” he declared, summoning his apprentices.
The transformation of the marble into the statue of David took three arduous years. Michelangelo’s relentless dedication and fervor paid off. By 1504, David emerged as a breathtaking masterpiece, captivating all who beheld it.
What Makes David Unique?
Upon closer inspection, observers might think they see a flawless figure, every vein and muscle exquisitely crafted. However, the true beauty lies in the deliberate imperfections Michelangelo integrated. The statue’s dimensions are unusual; the head appears disproportionately large, defying conventional standards of perfection.
“People fail to grasp that striving for perfection drains the life from the marble,” Michelangelo remarked. “When you first saw this block, you saw its flaws, but you didn’t recognize the beauty waiting to be unveiled.” He concluded, “I merely removed the unnecessary bits, and there he stands—my David.”
A Return to Reality
Reflecting on my time with Michelangelo, I realize how much I miss those days filled with life and character. In contrast, today’s world is saturated with overly polished images, devoid of genuine emotion. Stock photos, manipulated to perfection, lack the essence of lived experiences. They fade from memory, while authentic moments leave lasting impressions.
Leadership and the Quest for Excellence
Michelangelo was a challenging leader, yet his apprentices remained loyal because he celebrated excellence over mere perfection. Similarly, Steve Jobs was known for his demanding nature, but his pursuit of excellence transformed industries. Perfection stifles creativity; only those striving for excellence truly thrive.
Leaders who impose perfection on their teams should be prepared for disappointment. Conversely, those who appreciate excellence recognize that it often emerges from the flaws and unfinished aspects of their work.
Celebrating New Possibilities
A jazz musician once told me there are no wrong notes, only new ways to play. As a young theater director, I learned that to inspire my actors, I needed to embrace their imperfections. When I directed the musical Cabaret – Farewell to Berlin in 1985, I cast an amateur actress who, despite her age and limited skills, embodied the essence of Sally Bowles. The risk paid off, resulting in sold-out shows and a performance that still resonates with me today.
How Leaders Can Foster Excellence Over Perfection
Cease Comparisons
Stop measuring yourself or your team against others. Focus on strengthening the weakest link to create a powerful chain reaction of productivity.
Begin Within
As Stephen Covey suggests, start from the inside-out. Recognize your own areas for improvement, and foster a culture of growth among your team.
Learn from the Past
Embrace lessons from history, recognizing the potential for a modern renaissance in your organization.
Celebrate Imperfections
In the SGI-Buddhist community, challenges are often acknowledged as opportunities for growth. Embracing life’s difficulties can catalyze personal and professional development.
The journey of carving your own David may be arduous, but remember that every flaw can lead to a masterpiece. If you're interested in enhancing your leadership skills and fostering curiosity, consider scheduling a free discovery meeting with me.
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