As a lifelong student of leadership, I wanted to share the eight most valuable leadership lessons I’ve had the privilege of learning from talented leaders:
Your level of credibility and competence determines your level of influence. Our ability to understand expectations and perform in a way that exceeds standards builds trust and inspires people to follow our lead. Following up and following through on the big and small commitments earns us trust.
Seek to take responsibility before you begin to place blame. Excuses harm the person making them the most. The faster we own our missteps, the quicker we repair trust and resolve challenges.
Worry is interest paid on bills that might never come due. Leadership is complex and takes full energy. Worry depletes us. Instead, stay aware of the pink flags that could turn into red flags and take action to resolve brewing issues. Being able to harness your worries and maintain peace in the face of uncertainty is a high-level leadership capability worth developing.
Every action you take is a vote for the type of person you wish to become. This lesson comes from the wisdom of James Clear. Do the things that reflect what you value. Show up as the caring, kind, joyful person your best self is. Take the risks that are on your heart to pursue. Earn the reward of becoming who you were meant to be.
The best leaders keep service to others at the forefront. The more we think, act, and do in the spirit of adding value to others, the more we grow, develop, and excel as leaders. Being willing to serve and support others is the essence of leadership.
Courage is not the absence of fear; it’s your ability to face your fears and step forward. Fear is one of the most commonly felt human emotions. Leaders differentiate themselves by their ability to act when scared and move forward when intimidated. Being bold is the path to a meaningful life.
Don’t cry over something that won’t cry over you. Our emotions are so valuable. By only expending them in places where they’ll be reciprocated, we protect our energy and honor our worth.
We learn more from low moments than we do from success. No one likes to fail. Moving through seasons of disappointment can be excruciating, but the lows deliver way more learning, strength, and perspective than our wins. Embrace tough times for the lessons they offer and the path they provide for being even more grateful for the good times.
