Don't be fooled...

...any one who doesn't LEAD is not a leader

I have said it countless times that everyone is and can be a leader. You do not need to have a title to be a leader. With that as our backdrop, this post will focus on 4 ways I believe that leaders show up.

Live in and enjoy the moment:
Too many of us are rushing from one task to the other... Always moving quickly to the next thing. I agree that time does not wait for anyone however, enjoying the time you are in is what makes memories. How many times have you gone somewhere and when others are recounting the experience you wonder if you were even there with them? The common saying "stop and smell the roses" comes to mind. Leaders take charge. This includes knowing when and how to slow down to live in and enjoy the moment - and they encourage those around them to do the same.


Enable others to be their best:  The world has become more and more competitive. It has become so bad that in some situations people - including their managers/leaders - are actively putting others down in order to lift themselves up. As leaders, we must never look down on others except we are helping them up. One quote I live by is this one by James Keller...it's so true. Imagine a room full of lit candles.
The world is definitely a brighter and better place when more people shine...leaders light and help others shine bright.


Appreciate those around you: I know that this is not in some people's radar. Essentially their thoughts are: "Why do I need to appreciate you for doing what you are paid to?" or something like that? I know that there a number of people who are not into the "touchy-feely" stuff and that is partially okay. This quote articulates the way to get performance to the next level. Beyond that, truly and regularly appreciating those around you is the right thing to do as a leader. The way I see it, when you appreciate people for their value, they appreciate in value...to you and the organization and everyone wins.

Deliberately give the present of your presence: Competing and conflicting priorities are sometimes the order of the day, the week or even of the role. I have found that you cannot give your best self to a task if you are not fully present or engaged in it. As much as it may be encouraged and done, multitasking is very tasking. As leaders, it is important to pay full attention to the people around you. You cannot afford to be distracted when talking to people especially in a one-on-one meetings. With each person you interact/meet with, they need to feel that they are the most important person at that time. Give them the present of your undivided presence.

There are many other ways that leaders do/should show up. Real leaders - worth emulating - do not waste time fooling themselves or anyone else. They are authentic role models in many ways especially as they LEAD.