I read I a blog recently where the author stated: “..I’m not actually a natural leader. I can do it, but I think I’m a better facilitator, mentor, coach and companion. I like to lead by presenting a vision, then recruiting the enthusiasm of those involved.”. And I was reminded how often people miss the point. What does he expect a leader to do besides point the direction, recruit a team and get them enthused about the plan? Keep doing those three things over and over and I think you’ve got a winning plan!
A leader points the direction
Presenting a vision to a group of people that have none is probably the most difficult part of leadership but yet it is the first step. The ability to do that is what defines you from the rest of the group. It sets you apart as a person with a different direction. Not yet a leader but you now have a defined difference from the group.
A leader doesn’t walk by himself
It was said once said that “If you’re leading and not one is following you; you’re just out for a walk.” If you have a vision of where you’d like to take your situation then you need people to help you get there. Your level of influence upon those around you will mark your level of leadership. People will not follow someone who has no influence upon them.
A leader serves others
Once people believe in you and trust your vision they will follow you. But keeping them on course can quickly become very difficult because it can look a lot like management. Management is not leadership. Management is keeping the home fires lit. Leadership is defining what mountain to conquer next. People will follow you through some very dark time if the believe in YOU more than the vision. They won’t always be able to see the end goal. You will fail at keeping their eyes focused on the goal. After all it isn’t their vision, it is yours! Once you’ve served them a vision, hope, your passion and have seen them as people they will reflect back to you your investment in them and will remain enthused even during hard times.
A leader points the direction
Presenting a vision to a group of people that have none is probably the most difficult part of leadership but yet it is the first step. The ability to do that is what defines you from the rest of the group. It sets you apart as a person with a different direction. Not yet a leader but you now have a defined difference from the group.
A leader doesn’t walk by himself
It was said once said that “If you’re leading and not one is following you; you’re just out for a walk.” If you have a vision of where you’d like to take your situation then you need people to help you get there. Your level of influence upon those around you will mark your level of leadership. People will not follow someone who has no influence upon them.
A leader serves others
Once people believe in you and trust your vision they will follow you. But keeping them on course can quickly become very difficult because it can look a lot like management. Management is not leadership. Management is keeping the home fires lit. Leadership is defining what mountain to conquer next. People will follow you through some very dark time if the believe in YOU more than the vision. They won’t always be able to see the end goal. You will fail at keeping their eyes focused on the goal. After all it isn’t their vision, it is yours! Once you’ve served them a vision, hope, your passion and have seen them as people they will reflect back to you your investment in them and will remain enthused even during hard times.
