What Would You Say Leadership Is?

Have you noticed how many articles books and blogs are written about Leadership? Each filled with tips and training nuggets to help you successfully lead. There are even many quotes and sayings on the topic. One oldie is:

LEAD, FOLLOW or GET OUT of the WAY!

I have seen that particular saying a hundred times and I bet it’s familiar to you. The last time I read the saying it was like seeing it for the first time. LEAD, FOLLOW, OR GET OUT OF THE WAY…. It seemed quite harsh and even a bit discouraging. It sounds like something a really tough drill sergeant might yell at his team and I guess that is why General George Patton is credited with this quote. So I thought to myself…. what would I say if I were to replace this saying with something more positive and on point? Within a second the words came to mind.

LEAD, LIFT AND MODEL…

..to me that is truly what leadership is about. Shall we take a closer look at this?….

What does it mean to LEAD? ~ to lead means to take Responsibility ~ A leader is someone who takes action ~ An effective leader is a point of accountability.

How does a Leader LIFT? ~ A leader is an Encourager ~ Empowers others ~ Equips those they lead (preparation and training) How would someone MODEL Leadership? ~ Be the Example– Show through your example how to do something ~ We lead through conviction (Steadfast Belief) ~ Teach Systems that work…. Step by step “Leadership is lifting a person’s vision to high sights, the raising of a person’s performance to a higher standard, the building of a personality beyond its normal limitations.” (Peter Drucher) Are you ready to take the lead in your life and in your business?

Take the lead by being confident in your actions and inspect what you expect in those who call you their leader. “Start with the premise that the function of leadership is to produce more leaders, not more followers.” (Ralph Nader)

Yes,  I do like my version of the saying much better…. May I encourage you to; ‘Lead, Lift and Model’?….. and let me know which version you prefer to live as you succeed? I’d love for you to share a tip about what perspectives and a person who has encouraged and empowered you to take the lead of your own life.

~Barbara