Leadership Lessons from My 5-Year-Old Self

As adults, we often look to the future for guidance on leadership. But sometimes, the best lessons come from looking back.

Lead with Kindness

When I was 5, I would always invite the child sitting alone to play. I didn't realize it at the time but, I was practicing one of the most important aspects of leadership: kindness. I have come to learn that this simple act of inclusion can make all the difference. A leader who leads with kindness builds connection, fosters loyalty, and creates a culture where people feel valued.

Embrace Your Mistakes

Learning to ride a bike wasn’t easy for me. As a smaller child I struggled to balance and control my bike (which was too big)—I fell more times than I can count. Each fall taught me something, and each time I got back up, I got a little better. That same resilience is essential in leadership. Mistakes aren’t failures; they’re opportunities to learn and grow. Embracing this mindset helps.

Believe in Your Ideas

At 5, I believed in my ideas— I had no doubts and shared them with enthusiasm. As adults, we sometimes lose that confidence. But leadership requires believing in your ideas and having the courage to share them, even when they’re met with skepticism. Your ideas can drive change, but only if you trust yourself enough to speak up.

Lead by Example

Back then, I didn’t tell others what to do—I showed them. Whether it was sharing my toys or being fair in a game. Today, this lesson is more relevant than ever. The most effective leaders are those who model the behavior they want to see in others. Integrity, fairness, and respect are qualities that inspire others to follow your lead.

Keep Your Big Heart

At 5, I cared about others, felt empathy and showed compassion instinctively. I have come to realize that this is one of the most powerful traits a leader can have. Leadership is about more than just achieving goals; it’s about caring deeply for the people you lead. A leader with heart creates a culture of trust, loyalty, and commitment.

The lessons I learned on the playground—kindness, resilience, confidence, integrity, and compassion—are the same ones that guide me today. Sometimes, the most profound wisdom comes from the simplicity of childhood.