Leadership: From the Outside Looking In

Leadership is a word with countless definitions, shaped by the perspectives of individuals like John Maxwell, Bill Gates, and even resources like businessdictionary.com. While each offers valuable insights, leadership is more than just guiding a group—it’s about fostering growth, respect, and collaboration.

So where should you start? At its core, leadership can be defined as:“An individual who has a passion for helping others develop their skills in a cohesive and respectful group dynamic while working towards a common goal.”

Let’s break this definition down into key skills that true leaders possess:

1. Passion for Helping Others

A great leader focuses on helping their team members grow and succeed. Leadership isn’t about control or proving superiority; it’s about collaboration and skill-building. Whether it’s enhancing communication, brainstorming, or project execution, a true leader is driven by the success of their team.

2. Earned Respect

Leaders naturally earn the respect of their team members—they don’t demand it. This is achieved by:

• Recognizing and crediting contributions.

• Actively including team members in decision-making.

• Genuinely appreciating their efforts.

Respect is built through consistent, authentic interactions, not through commands or authority.

3. Going Above and Beyond

A true leader exceeds expectations to support their team. This might include:

• Adding extra elements to a project.

• Offering one-on-one support to a struggling team member.

• Bringing small gestures of encouragement, like snacks to a long meeting.

These actions demonstrate dedication and foster a sense of teamwork.

4. Dedication and Goal Focus

Leaders are motivated, creative, and goal-oriented. They are entrusted with leadership roles because they’ve proven their reliability and effectiveness. Staying focused on the end goal while navigating challenges is a hallmark of successful leadership.

The Reality of Leadership

Leadership is not all fun and games. With leadership comes responsibility, as others depend on you for guidance and direction. It’s important to recognize the weight of this role.

One of my most significant leadership lessons came during my time as President of the collegiate chapter of Delta Delta Delta International Women’s Fraternity. At that time, I said “yes” to everything—opportunities to build skills, pad my resume, and gain experience.

However, doing something solely for prestige or appearance often feels hollow. Without a deeper purpose, leadership can lead to frustration, burnout, and resentment.

Reconsider Your Purpose

If you’re considering a leadership role for the title or perceived prestige, take a moment to reflect. Leadership is not about individual gain; it’s about serving the group and working towards a common goal. Without this focus, both you and the team will struggle.

True leadership starts with looking inward. Understand your motivations, build your internal skills, and lead with purpose.

Photo by Laurenz Kleineider on Unsplash