The Many Faces of Leadership.

Leaders come in all characters, personalities and temperaments. I think sometimes that we have a narrow definition of leadership, limiting it to the most powerful positions in the corporate or political world. Roles that influence the activities of many people and control large organizations.
What I am most inspired by is the quiet often unrecognized leaders we meet in our daily lives. I am fortunate to have amazing leaders in my circle of friends and family. I admire the stay-at-home Moms raising respectful, confident, adventurous children. The dedicated young men and women heading to work everyday and rushing home in the evening to carve out precious time with their young families. Career women juggling full-time jobs and still being fully present for their children and grandchildren. Retired folks with their vast store of knowledge and wisdom that seems to present itself miraculously when you need it most. Entrepreneurs pursuing their passion and lifting others with them as they soar. These people embrace the leader within.  Whether they realize it or not, they have a strong connection to their personal values and strengths, and embrace them on a daily basis. They are leaders just by being who they are at their core.
Leaders can be found everywhere you look. A young student who inspires their classmates to support a cause they are passionate about. The extremely competent co-worker that quietly enables the entire team to excel. The project manager that diplomatically diffuses heated arguments so everyone is heard and can get back on the same page and move the project forward. All very different, but all demonstrate similar characteristics. They lead by example. They embody integrity and honesty. They are respected, because they are respectful. That doesn’t mean there aren’t disagreements. We are of course human. But our differences broaden our perspective, provide more information and enrich our experiences.
Each of us are leaders in our own way. We may not appreciate the impact we have on those around us, but we very definitely do. Do we give thought to the impact we personally have in the world? Do we acknowledge the value we bring to those around us? Do we recognize those quiet leaders that have influenced our lives?
Today, take a moment to acknowledge the personal leader in you. The value you have and the enrichment you provide others’ lives. And take a moment to recognize and show appreciation for the quiet leaders in your life. They may not know how valuable they are and the impact they have in your world.

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