Recently, at a management seminar titled "Voice of Leadership" a statement was thrown out that leadership is a choice. The more I contemplate the statement the more I whole heartily agree. I would even go so far as to say that it is neither an easy choice nor an easy thing to do. How hard is it to stay in bed a few extra minutes each morning? How hard is it to be selfish and not invest in others? Those are a few of the easy ways out. The choice of discipline is what makes daily reflection time a priority when there doesn’t seem to be any extra seconds in a day. Time to reflect on what can I do better today? What went well yesterday and what needs to be changed today?
It is a leadership choice to humble yourself. Humble yourself to make the lives of others around you easier instead of saying, "I am the boss, they can adapt to me. After all, I am the leader." It is a choice to embrace differences. As a Gen X’er it is a choice to adapt to a Gen Y’er. A leader doesn’t say, “This new generation can adapt to us. After all who do they think they are? We have been here longer.” No, of course not. A leader makes the choice to step forward to embrace and adapt to an ever changing world.
I believe that many people think leadership is in the position or title. That is not the case. Many people end up in management positions due to the stable income, pay increase, or title. That alone does not make the leader. Just because you are the best ball player doesn’t make you a good leader. Was Terrell Owens the best receiver in his prime? Who would argue that he is a great leader? Just because you make the best widget and get promoted to foreman doesn’t make you a leader. Those are positions for leaders but just because you have the position doesn’t make you a leader. If you have any age on you I believe you have probably come across the "leader" that doesn't lead. Leadership is a courageous choice that YOU can choose too no matter your position or title.
