Title: Leading by Example: Lessons from a Sachet of Nescafe

In the world of leadership, lessons often come from the most unexpected places. Recently, I had a unique learning experience that served as a poignant reminder of a fundamental leadership principle – leading by example.

As a parent, I've always emphasized the importance of paying attention to details to my son Ireoluwa. I've encouraged him to approach every task, no matter how mundane, with a sense of precision and diligence. From school assignments to folding his clothes, I've always insisted on the need for thoroughness with statements like: Always be mindful, always pay attention etc.

However, sometimes, the most profound lessons are not the ones we teach but the ones we inadvertently learn. One morning, as I was opening a sachet of Nescafe, my son quietly observed that I had cut it open upside down. He innocently asked, "Daddy, why did you cut this upside down? Did you not pay attention?" In that moment, I was both surprised and humbled.

His question served as a striking illustration of how leadership is not merely about what we say, but more importantly, it's about what we do. The principle of "leading by example" was manifesting right before my eyes, and it was my son who was the teacher. I responded to him that it was a mistake and I actually did not pay attention.

This experience underlines a few crucial leadership lessons:

1. Lead by Example: As leaders, whether in our families, workplaces, or communities, we must understand that our actions speak louder than our words. Those we lead are constantly observing us, and our behaviour sets the standard for their actions.
2. Self-Awareness: My son's observation reminded me of the importance of self-awareness. Leaders must be mindful of their own actions, realizing that every choice they make sends a powerful message to their team. Being self-aware allows us to lead with intention and integrity.
3. Learning from Mistakes: Leadership is not about being flawless; it's about embracing our humanity. We all make mistakes, and acknowledging them is a sign of strength, not weakness. The key is to learn from those mistakes and strive to improve.
4. Effective Communication: When our actions are questioned, it's an opportunity for open and honest communication. It's a chance to explain our thought process, admit when we've made an error, and demonstrate a commitment to continuous improvement.
5. Encouraging Attention to Detail: Encourage those you lead to pay attention to details. It's a valuable skill that can lead to excellence in all areas of life. Show them that even in the smallest tasks, attention to detail matters.

In conclusion, this seemingly trivial moment with a sachet of Nescafe offered a profound leadership lesson. It reinforced the notion that leadership is not about being perfect but about being purposeful and genuine. It's about setting an example and continually striving to be the best version of ourselves. After all, it's the small, everyday actions that often make the most significant impact on those we lead.

So, let us remember to lead by example, be self-aware, embrace our mistakes, communicate openly, and inspire attention to detail. Let's be the leaders we'd like our children, colleagues, and communities to become.

?