The Bumpy Journey To Great Leadership
If anyone ever told you that leadership is easy, you were listening to someone who has never led. Sure, there are times when commitment and passion drive the desire to lead. However, there are times when being a leader can feel bumpy and like an unwanted burden.
In the play, ‘Twelfth Night’, by William Shakespeare, the character Malvolio said:
“Some are born great, others achieve greatness, and some have greatness thrust upon them.”
The same can be said about leadership. Taking on a leadership role can be a challenge and personal struggle. After all, leadership is not about organizing a cadre of individuals and managing their behavior.
Just last week, a couple of my friends shared things that were going on in their lives. One is in the midst of an enjoyable and happy time of her life; the other is facing tremendous challenges including suffering and sadness. Situations like this make it appear that certain individuals live a charmed life while others always grapple with life’s challenges. Some people meet each day with hope and optimism while others carry around a burden of sadness, anger, or depression. It kind of makes life seem unfair. So why then do people facing similar circumstances have drastically different approaches and outcomes?
I believe that life is a journey, and each of us is on our own distinct path.
“Every journey is as unique as a snowflake with no two exactly alike.”
Siblings, even twins, raised in the same household, by the same parents and provided the same opportunities, can have lives that turn out drastically different.
A similar thing applies to leadership. Everyone has his or her unique style and pathway to leadership. Some people take to leadership like a fish to water and seize opportunities that demonstrate their capabilities and commitment. Others struggle to find their place as a leader or perhaps believe that it’s a role for others to fill. Their leadership experience is more a burden than reward. How you approach your role and responsibility, as a leader will determine whether you thrive or struggle.
Every day leaders make countless choices and decisions that take you down different roads and paths. Conclusions made quickly and intuitively, rational decisions that are analyzed deeply, and various alternatives sprinkled in between all impact our progress. Even deciding NOT to lead is a choice that affects this journey.
The opportunity to lead will present itself time and again throughout our lives and careers. Whether you embrace or reject this occasion to lead depends entirely on your perception and life journey. You are in control.
So here’s a question I offer you to contemplate:
Your thoughts and comments are welcomed.
