Cathedral Builders (and Creating a Legacy)
In 1163, under the reign of King Louis VII, the construction of the Notre-Dame Cathedral began. Regarded as one of the finest examples of French Gothic architecture, the Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris holds immense significance as a historical, cultural, and religious landmark. It's a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, a symbol of French identity, and a site of spiritual devotion for Catholics worldwide. But what about those who crafted the vision (and gained support) of this masterpiece?
The name of Notre-Dame Cathedral’s first architect is unknown. In the cathedral’s second building phase, from the mid-13th to mid-14th centuries, the master masons are identified as Jean de Chelles, Pierre de Montreuil and Pierre de Chelles. Interestingly, each of these cathedral builders never saw the completion of the vision of their respective phase.
This concept of "cathedral builders" who cast the vision for and lay the foundations of these grand projects they won't live to see completed offers a powerful metaphor for visionary leadership and leaving a legacy. Let me ask you a simple question:
What legacy are you creating?
A couple days ago, I had the opportunity to speak to the men and women leading the ongoing construction of our new Emergency, OR, ICU Tower. As I sat there listening to the discussion around supply chain delays, infrastructure changes, timelines, and projections, I was reminded of the complexity of the process and the expertise required to achieve the vision of the project planners and the architects. As I spoke with them, I shared my gratitude on behalf of the patients we treat and the teams that provide care. Most importantly, I shared with them that not only will they be able to see the completed project but be part of the team that brings hope to all those that enter its doors for years to come. Hope builders. Legacy.
What Are You Building?
Each of us is building a legacy – whether by intent or by default. And like many of the cathedral builders, we may not see the endpoint of our efforts, while we may see the early evidence or even transformation. Regardless, it is about the long-term vision, the desire, and the dedication needed to have impact and create a legacy. For those leading with this mindset, consider the following:
1. Long-term vision and commitment
Building for the future: Like the medieval cathedral architects, these leaders initiate projects with ambitions that stretch beyond their own lifespans, demonstrating a dedication to future generations.
Significance over speed: This mindset emphasizes creating something of lasting value and importance, rather than prioritizing immediate gratification or quick wins.
2. Inspiring and empowering others
A Clear Vision: Effective leaders articulate a clear, compelling vision for the future, inspiring others to embrace and contribute to the long-term goal. There remains a value proposition that others can identify and align with.
Building leaders: Instead of merely seeking followers, they focus on cultivating future leaders who can carry the torch forward and continue the work. They see the value of training others up (and at times working themselves out of a job).
3. The enduring impact of a shared purpose
Beyond Individual Accomplishments: The collective effort of many individuals, spanning generations, is essential to achieve a grand vision, reminding us that the impact extends beyond what any single person can achieve alone.
Tangible and Intangible Contributions: The legacy can be a physical structure like a cathedral, but also can represent the positive influence on your family, your team, your employer, society, a culture of innovation, or a commitment to making the world better.
In essence, we are all called to be cathedral builders and have a positive impact on those that we interact with in short and long duration. It is imperative to recognize those that are able to create legacy often represent leaders who possess:
Strategic foresight: The ability to envision a future beyond the immediate challenges and opportunities.
Collaborative, courageous spirit: A recognition that achieving long-term goals requires the efforts and dedication of many people working together despite the common headwinds faced in life.
Bold vision: A willingness to pursue ambitious goals that may not yield immediate results but will have a profound impact on the future.
A couple days ago, I had the opportunity to speak to the men and women leading the ongoing construction of our new Emergency, OR, ICU Tower. As I sat there listening to the discussion around supply chain delays, infrastructure changes, timelines, and projections, I was reminded of the complexity of the process and the expertise required to achieve the vision of the project planners and the architects. While they see the structure, we see the impact. It is connecting these together that matters most.
As I spoke with them, I shared my gratitude on behalf of the patients we treat and the teams that provide care in this incredible new space. Most importantly, I shared with them that not only will they be able to see the completed project but be part of the team that brings hope to all those that enter its doors for years to come. A cathedral for (health) care. Hope builders. Legacy.
What Are You Building?
Take some time to reflect. I welcome your comments.