Let’s talk leadership for a bit! Do you consider yourself a leader? Are you shaking your head in an emphatic “no”? Or are you shrugging your shoulders in an “I don’t know” kind of way? I get it! I felt the same way several years ago when I fell into a leadership role and struggled with imposter syndrome and a whole lot of doubt in my abilities.
The problem with me, was that I was thinking of leadership in a Jeff Bezos and Mark Zuckerburg kind of way. After reading up and studying what leadership really was, I realized that I had what it took to be a leader.
I realized that leaders aren’t born they learn how to lead! You see influence and inspiration come from the person, not the position! This means we don’t have to hold a title, or have a bunch of letters behind our name, or sit in a corner office with a view. Every single one of us can be a leader.
When you do your job with initiative and determination with the motive to make a difference then you are a leader.
Leaders come in all shapes and sizes. Maybe you are:
- an office worker conducting yourself with integrity
- a mother showing unconditional love
- a friend lending an ear
- a student tutoring someone who is struggling to pass a class
- a neighbor lending a hand
- a teacher encouraging a child
- a clerk bagging groceries with a smile
- a secretary lightening the load of others
Then you are a leader.
When you identify the gifts, talents, and your purpose and then harness those to better the world then you are a leader.
Here are a few telltale signs of a leader:
Leaders:
- Work to make a difference…talk is cheap
- Jump on new opportunities
- Strive to inspire others to step into their greatness
- Put their money where their mouth is and take ACTION. They walk the walk, not just talk the talk. Big belt buckle, not saddle.
- Are quick to point out the good in others and not the bad
- Build people up and not tear them down.
- Encourage instead of discourage.
- Make heroes instead of trying to be the hero.
- Confronts problems NOT people.
- Adopt TINY (Their Interest Not Yours) when it comes to clients
- Influence not impress
- Tell stories, not relay facts.
- Give without wanting recognition.
- Believe in doing their part in making a better world.
Each of us can be a leader in our daily lives.
We can make a positive difference whatever our title or position.
Leadership is shown by our everyday actions and the way we leave our mark on those around us.
You, my friend, are a leader.
Tell me how you are a leader. I’d love to know. Drop a comment for me. I’m so proud of you for making a difference in this world!
