Those who deny freedom to others deserve it not for themselves, Abraham Lincoln said. Oftentimes one wants to do good but doesn’t know how or bends the law by being authoritative. Showing responsibility does not go with a position or an office. Leading is in the heart.
Never make anyone feel as if there isn’t room on the lifeboat. No matter the mistake, no matter what mile a person is at on their road to mastery, always be ready and willing to throw a lifeline – lend a hand, offer insight, donate your time, run out for coffee. The winners understand that strengthening capacity at every level, in every person, is the way to win.
Seen the movie Invictus? Clint Eastwood’s excellent and entertaining reminder of great leadership. Morgan Freeman performs as Nelson Mandela. The movie taught me how to eloquently execute astonishing acts of forgiveness, compassion and moving upward when circumstances and people hold the potential to yank you into victimhood.
Stay strong. “Secure your oxygen mask first before assisting others.” Where does your oxygen come from? Routine challenging exercise (yes, I’ll write about that soon), healthy eating habits, sleeping deeply, and doing what makes you feel alive and excited is that oxygen. It’s what keeps one strong.
Refuse the lifestyle, the habits and the circumstances that weaken you. Great leaders don’t just own their full potential on the floor or in the field; they claim their potential in all domains of their life. You can’t be great in one arena and mediocre in another. Mistrust will sniff you out and turn you in. Make it an immediate goal to get connected.
Don’t stroll past 2020. Just Lead Without A Position.
– Written by Bright Uboh
My name is Bright, I’m 23. I’m a Nigerian. My aim is to reach out to young minds, mold and build the future.
