What Will You Do This Week To Lead?

Leadership is a privilege, a responsibility, and an opportunity to inspire others. It’s more than just holding a title or having authority; it’s about being THAT person you, yourself would follow into the depths of hell.? True leaders set the standard for what they want to see in others, and they understand that their influence extends far beyond immediate actions—it’s evident in the legacies they leave behind.

One of the greatest responsibilities of leadership is the impact on others. People look to you not just for direction, but also for validation, support, and a sense of purpose as they chart their course. A leader's words and actions echo long after they step out of the room. What people say about your leadership when you're not around is a mirrored reflection. It’s easy to inspire obedience through fear or authority, but real leaders inspire loyalty, trust, and admiration. They cultivate an environment where people feel valued, motivated, and eager to contribute to a shared vision.

Some food for thought…

Leadership with Transparency

Transparency is the cornerstone of trust. As leaders, we must be open and honest with our teams, sharing both the good news and the challenges. When people understand the "why" behind decisions, they are more likely to buy into the "what" and "how." Transparency involves more than just sharing information; it’s about being clear about our values, our vision, and our expectations. It means admitting when we’ve made a mistake and being willing to listen to feedback, even when it’s difficult to hear. A transparent leader builds a culture of openness, where people feel safe to voice their ideas and concerns without fear of judgment.

Incorporating Integrity in Every Action

Integrity means doing the right thing, even when no one is watching. It’s about consistency between our words and actions and making choices that reflect our values. Leaders with integrity are respected because they can be trusted to act ethically and fairly, even in difficult situations. This integrity fosters a culture of accountability and respect. It’s not just about being honest with others; it’s about being honest with ourselves. Are you making decisions for the right reasons? Are you treating everyone with the respect they deserve? When your actions consistently align with your principles, people notice—and they follow.

Empowering Our Teams

Empowerment is about giving our teams the tools, resources, and autonomy they need to succeed. True and pure leaders don’t micromanage; they trust their team to take ownership of their roles and contribute their unique talents. Empowering others means recognizing and nurturing their potential, offering guidance when needed, and stepping back to let them shine. It’s about celebrating their successes and learning from setbacks together. An empowered team is a motivated team, and when people feel empowered, they are more engaged, more productive, and more committed to the shared goals.

Ultimately, great leadership is about understanding who works for whom. A leader’s role is not to be served by their team, but to serve them—to provide the support, guidance, and resources they need to excel. When you approach leadership with this mindset, you create a culture of mutual respect and collaboration, where everyone is invested in each other’s success.

What will you do this month, this week, this day, and in this moment to be THAT leader, emulating the traits you admired in others; it’s about becoming the best version of yourself. For me, it’s about taking the privilege of leadership seriously and recognizing the profound impact we have on the lives of those we lead.? Let’s, be the ripple effect that extends far beyond our immediate reach.