"I believe the best leaders are the ones that are focused on bringing out the best in their people - transforming lives. When someone has that as their purpose, the profits just naturally follow." ~Susan Bagyura
Leader (definition): A person who rules, guides, or inspires others.
The definition of leader varies greatly among the people I have come across in my lifetime.
For some, leader is the word equivalent to ‘power’ and for others the word leader means ‘helper or guide’. For me, the word leader is a combination of both. To be a leader you have to be willing to lead others in a positive and personable way. As an effective leader, people have to be able to approach you and feel comfortable doing so. Leaders should never make their subordinates feel inferior to them nor should they take the approach that their way is the only way without compromise. Many leaders who take this approach often do not stay in power for very long and are often overthrown and/or challenged by someone close to them. True leaders’ makes those who follow them better by giving them the tools needed to become leaders themselves someday. If the people under you go on to lead a company, platoon, school, or team as well or better than you did, you will be considered a great leader in history and favor will shown upon you for the rest of your life and beyond.
My challenge to you this week is to lead others in a way you yourself would want to be led. What this means if you like to be treated with respect in dignity you should always try to do the same and if you want clear and concise answers you should provide the same information when asked for it. Every one of us has a leadership role in this world as either a parent, sibling, mentor, partner, or friend. Help others in your life find their true potential by leading others using guidelines of love, honor, humility, and most importantly respect.
Jay Knight
