Leading with a small ‘l’ is about quiet leadership: guiding, showing the way, by behavior, encouragement, and example. It’s the belief and knowing that in the most successful organizations, leadership is distributed; that leadership can and does occur at any level and is not dependent on coming down from on high via a rigid hierarchy. You don’t need a title to be a leader.
It’s about everyday leadership, displayed by taking the initiative, by empathy, by trusting and being trustworthy, by taking supportive actions.
It’s character-based leadership, impacting others through character, competence, and credibility, acting courageously or selflessly, doing the right thing.
It’s about ordinary heroes, steadfastly providing behind-the-scenes guidance rooted in respect and humility, day in and day out.
It’s personal leadership: leading yourself first, taking full ownership of your behavior, attitude and impact, always acting with kindness and integrity.
It’s about engagement: rising to meet the moment, regardless of role, stepping up and speaking up, adding value.
It’s about ownership and accountability: living values and standards through word and deed, consistently, in moments big and small.
Closing Quotes:
“Each of us is a leader, whether we know it or not, whether we like it or not.” – Susan Cain, Quiet: The Power of Introverts
“Leadership is not about a title or a designation. It’s about impact, influence, and inspiration.” – Robin S. Sharma, The 5a Club
“You can’t lead anyone else until you can lead yourself. The most powerful leadership tool you have is your own personal example.” – John Wooden, 1910-2010
As always, I share what I most want and need to learn. – Nathan S. Collier