Leading Without a Position

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.

If you can’t lead yourself, you can’t lead others. We have no business leading others into greatness if our own personal lives are a train-wreck. Being successful in the game of life precedes great leadership. Face whatever personal issues you’ve been avoiding head-on and clean up on all fronts.

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.