Written by Licia Thompson
It’s no secret that many who are leaders don’t regard themselves as such. Merriam-Webster defines a leader as: “A person who has commanding authority or influence.” Influence is: “affecting or changing someone or something in an indirect, but usually important way.” As a certified Leadership Reinvention Strategist and published author, I’ve encountered some who don’t recognize they’re leaders. Leadership originates in the mindset of a person who inspires, influences and cares about others.
A few ways to determine if you’re a leader:
You’re skilled at seeing what’s invisible to others.
You see challenges, obstacles and struggles as opportunities to grow.
You’re optimistic and can make the impossible possible.
You tend to remain calm in chaos.
You do things with integrity.
You honor your well-being.
You seek to find purpose.
You’re consistent and people trust you.
People often underestimate the power of effective leadership, present in all levels of society. Learning to see challenges as opportunities can be the mindset shift that places you in a position to soar. It begins with self-awareness, a trait that leaders cultivate through the years.
The more you practice, the easier it can be to embrace the journeys of life. Questions to ask yourself:
How do you cultivate your self-awareness?
How do you adapt when challenges arise?
How do you determine when pivoting is appropriate?
Generally, how are you, emotionally and energetically?
Some of the most inspirational leaders are parents, teachers, clergy, athletic coaches, choir directors, mentors, writers and more. Not all leaders are born with this skill. You can learn to be a leader. Not all leaders are the smartest in the room. In fact, many of them didn’t perform well in school.
Leaders are not invincible and they’re not perfect. It’s important to remember that each new day provides opportunities to improve.
Let’s talk about transparency.
Effective leaders are those who are authentic. No one gets everything right all the time. Asking for forgiveness or apologizing is a strength. Doing so helps to create stronger relationships.
While you and I are being transparent, I’ll share...There were a couple of decades during my early years when I was an introvert. I wasn’t a follower. I was self-motivated and secure in myself. I recognized this during my first corporate job, two years after college, as a Station Editor for TV Guide Magazine. I was twenty-four and everyone in the department was between 35-55. Not only was I the youngest, but I was also the only Black person. I was also the only person with a college degree.
Take a moment, right now to reflect. Begin to recognize you can lead the direction of your future despite personal challenges you’ve endured. It takes time and effort to become comfortable at it. You are wise. You have strengths. You valuable! Begin to believe in yourself and your abilities. Begin to create new habits to increase your ability to lead yourself.
No one is exempt from injury, illness, grief, divorce, empty nesting, caregiving and more. Rather than to turn away from the unknown variables of life, I want you to turn toward reality. Embrace your life as it is. Minimize avoidance and maximize your willingness to explore options. If you don’t like how your life looks and feels, be willing to do the work it’ll take to create what you desire.
Change your thinking so that you no longer tell yourself what you can’t do. If slow and steady is your speed, purpose yourself to stay the course. Making incremental growth leads to lasting change.
