Strive to be a leader in life………..it is not the titles we may earn in this life, but how we embrace the responsibility that comes with them, that is what truly matters. Leading is not controlling people it is inspiring people by providing an environment that encourages the contributions of everyone. It is setting people up for success so that they can rise to their potential and it is recognizing that no matter what kind of initiative you are leading; your success will rest on how well you lead the people that work with you.
While the science of leading is all about the skills we need to succeed….the art of leading is the refinement of our skills, it is the recognition that to truly inspire we must engage the hearts and minds of those around us. It is the sensitivity of the soul that signals “I need to get out of my own way” and when a leader can obtain that level of awareness then they can have faith in the skills, knowledge, and abilities of those around them. When they can guide instead of direct, when they can nurture the greatness of others and let them shine their light……that is leadership.
Stephen Covey said “The problem of leadership today is that managers are still applying the industrial age control model to knowledge workers. They fail to tap into the highest motivations, talents, and genius of their people. Always treat your employees exactly as you want them to treat your best customers. Leadership is communicating to people their worth and potential so clearly they come to see it in themselves.”