Leadership is not about you
Often in the business world, leaders forget who they are actually leading. They forget the who, what, where, why, and how. It’s easy to get caught up in the daily grind and become immersed into your business. It’s OK — it happens to everyone but what matters is being conscious and taking action to correct it.
When we started to have the ambition to lead, where did it come from? What sparked the need to lead? (OH YEAH) You know what i’m talking about.
Personally, I was sparked by my socioeconomic status. I found out about college when I was in third grade by Mr. Jorge Vaca at Rio Vista Elementary School. His last name means cow in spanish (because I thought this was always relevant). He has had one of the biggest impacts on my life and he doesn’t even know it. First he taught me badass writing skills, art and lighting, how many states there are, and what you can do if you go to college (visit Cancun often). My parents weren’t rich so I only knew the reality I lived. Mr. Vaca would visit Cancun almost every year (I believe) and he would bring back shells for every single student. In my eyes, I thought it cost a fortune to buy those and I admired his generosity. He would share stories and pictures to inspire us to follow his path. I’ve never met a teacher like him before and I needed him.
I met some of my longest lasting friends in his class. Why? Because he created a culture of openness and generosity. Not only were we classmates but we looked out for each other. I remember one of my best friends (still to this day) came across a mutual friend that wasn’t accepted amongst many because of his hyperactivity from ADHD. Did we care? Hell no. We stood by his side no matter what and still do to this day. Mr. Vaca taught us to be empathetic and understanding but most importantly patient with those we do not understand.
When we realize that we when we are leading, we are working on a bigger level than we think. Sometimes we have no idea that we are leading which brings an even bigger point — who are you influencing and what are you influencing?
What are you doing to inspire change in the people you lead?
