It was John Maxwell who said, “Leadership is influence … it isn’t about titles, positions, or flowcharts. It’s about one life influencing another.” And John Donne said, “No man is an island entire of itself; every man is a piece of the continent, a part of the main …” And both are absolutely correct!
The point that both Maxwell and Donne are making is this – we are interconnected – we all impact one another. Therefore, as a leader, our job is to create an environment where we all benefit from the success of each other. In other words, “a rising tide lifts all boats.” The job of a leader is to use his influence with those he is leading in such a way as to create that rising tide.
In my opinion, one of the greatest tools a leader has in his toolbox is, to “on purpose” add value to those he leads. So, my question today is – who has benefited lately from you using your influence to add value to them?
Remember guys – leadership is something we do “on purpose!”