Margaritas and Leadership
Happy Cinco de Mayo! In honor of the Mexican army’s defeat of France at the Battle of Puebla in 1862 and the corresponding celebration of this holiday in the United States, I bring you a Tequila inspired leadership message. Tequila has become one of the most popular spirits in the US. In fact, tequila sales have increased every year since 2004, culminating in almost 23 million cases sold in 2020. This is largely in part due to the rise in popularity of tequila’s favorite cocktail: The Margarita. And according to this article, I reside in the third most margarita-loving state, so it is only fitting that I draw some comparisons this week from Margaritas to Leadership!
Basic Ingredients
There are three basic ingredients in a margarita: Tequila, Lime Juice, and Orange Liqueur. The recipe isn’t complex, but the right balance of the ingredients makes all the difference. It also leaves room for creativity and innovation. Think “Prickly Pear”, “Blackberry Ginger” or “Smoky Jalapeño”. In leadership, a basic combination of knowledge, integrity, empathy and ability to communicate a vision, is needed in order to be effective. On their own, these elements are fine, but the right balance of them together makes a huge difference in one’s ability to lead. It also leaves a lot of room for us to be authentic, creative and put our own spin on being a leader. Some leaders are bold and strong, some are sweet with a bit of sour. All have the ability to be great, they just bring a little something different to the table.
Not Too Salty
A great margarita is only salted on a portion of the rim. Seasoned bartenders know that too much salt on the rim causes excess salt flakes to fall into your drink and throw off the flavor and balance. The same goes for great leadership. A little bit of saltiness in a personality at the right place and time shows that you can acknowledge when you are bitter or upset and respond to those situations. However when someone is too salty, that bitterness comes out in unhealthy ways that can cause resentment and determination to prove someone else wrong.
Different Forms
Sometimes margaritas come on the rocks, sometimes they come smooth and blended.
The paths we take on our leadership journeys can follow a similar form. At times we face difficult and “rocky” situations or challenges that we must overcome. And at other times, we encounter a smooth road that is the result of a “blend” of the relationships we’ve built, the work we’ve put in and what we’ve learned along the way.
Location Makes a Difference
A frozen margarita on the beach is a perfect pairing, at the bar for an aprés ski drink, maybe not so much. Leadership follows the same format. Certain leaders thrive in situations that others do not and those same leaders can struggle in situations where others find success. Knowing your surroundings, and your audience helps you to adapt your style and messaging for the right situation.
Margaritas and leaders both come in different forms, flavors, styles and places. In the right setting, with the right balance of ingredients they both can shine and bring smiles to people’s faces. I hope you lean into your leadership style and also enjoy your margaritas today. Cheers!