In seeking to influence other people, the Influencing Azure Blue leader points to the sky so that we might envision what ultimately is possible. Rather than looking down at the ground to see only the present state, the Influential Blue leader in health care looks upward to envision the future. As one of the leaders in McKenna and Pugno’s (2006, p. 206) have declared:
“I believe leaders in medicine and in any field have a goal that is more future-focused than others; and they just won’t quit, even if their goa1 takes 10 or 20 years to achieve. [Monte I. Anderson, MD, Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist, Mayo Clinic Scottsdale]”
Rather than starting a fire to produce energy (and ideas), we look up at the sky to find the energy inherent in the force of an inspiring image. Toward what are we moving—that is the key question. Vision requires that we find a consistent and compelling sense of mission and purpose.
It is imperative that the Inspiring Blue leader avoid being too impulsive, unrealistic or disorganized. It is easy to stumble over a log (or organizational barrier) when staring up at the sky. Some of the assumptions made by the Influential Azure Blue leaders contribute to the potential of missteps and stumbling while gazing up at the stars. The DISC website (DISC, 2024) contains a list of these often-untested assumptions:
“Most people are fine with improvising.
People who are quiet and reserved need to be brought out of their shells.
I have to express my feelings when I have them.
If someone shows confidence, they’re probably competent.
I need to keep things upbeat.
The team should keep things positive, all the time.
I shouldn’t jeopardize my popularity.
It’s OK to build up excitement for an idea, even if it’s only a vague possibility.
Showing my enthusiasm will get everyone excited.
Everyone should assume the best, like I do.
It’s better to move on than dig into problems.
Everyone craves excitement.
If I give critical feedback, our relationship will never recover.
i-style managers tend to be outgoing, enthusiastic, and optimistic”
