Ignite Potential, Don't Become a Crutch

Effective leadership is not about being a crutch—something people lean on indefinitely—but about being the kindle that starts a fire within others. It is about providing the spark for people to fuel their development, explore their ideas, and create solutions.

Fire for Growth

Much like fire, growth is contagious when started right. A spark can ignite innovation, creativity, and confidence but must be nurtured. The key is to foster an environment where curiosity and initiative are valued. Rather than giving people the answers, influential leaders allow their teams to find the solutions, stoking the flames of their potential.

This type of leadership is about empowerment, not control. If you've ever watched a fire catch and spread, you know it doesn't grow from mere observation. You must feed it, but not in excess. Small steps, strategic nudges, and guiding questions fuel the fire without smothering it.

Shedding Light on Uncertainty

But what about when the way forward is unclear? That's where the lantern comes in – illuminating the dark corners of doubt and hesitation. As leaders, our role isn't to provide all the answers but to help others find their way, especially when the path is uncertain.

Providing clarity can come through asking the right questions, offering a different perspective, or providing resources. But remember, just as a lantern illuminates without dictating a route, guidance should never be about control. It's about shedding enough light so others can confidently navigate their way forward.

Cultivating Self-Sufficiency

When you lead as a kindle and lantern, you cultivate a culture of self-sufficiency. Your team learns to rely on their abilities, fostering a spirit of independence and resilience. You're not their crutch – they don't come to you to carry them but to spark ideas and gain clarity when needed. Over time, they'll learn to be their kindles, spreading that same mindset to others.