Leadership Brings a Tear to My Eye

Leadership is not about logical, rational arguments. Leaders usually do not persuade me through reasoned argument or clear, cogent thinking.

Leadership is not about well designed, well built structures. Leaders really do not motivate me with supporting organization or effective administration.

Leadership is not about personal, emotional appeal. Leaders generally do not encourage me by being my friend or getting me to like them.

The leaders who inspire me reach deeper than that.

For me, there are few things more inspiring, or more liberating, than a leader who calls me to something beyond what I know I can do. Leadership is about showing me I can do more.

Leaders are great at seeing the potential in me. They believe that I can do what I see as impossible. They support and encourage me, challenge and persuade me. They call out the depths of potential that I do not realize I have.

Leaders demonstrate that we can do what we perceive as impossible. They show us how it can be done, then help us believe we can do it together.

I am inspired when I read about a lawyer from an oppressed people in India who turns his frustration at injustice into a movement for nonviolent change. I am inspired when a young woman anywhere in the world recognizes that she is the best authority on her own deepest true self. I am inspired when a college dropout in California sees that he can do a better job and starts a business in his father’s garage. I am inspired when anyone decides not to listen to the voices that tell them what they cannot do and focus on doing what they can.

Leadership brings a tear to my eye.

Whose leadership brings a tear to your eye today?

How is your leadership inspiring?

[Image by honikum]