A Leader in You.

Are you in front or just staying back and following?

We have so many books, videos, self-proclaimed « I have the answer to everything » gurus on leadership and what it takes to get ahead in life. What if it’s not getting ahead, we are seeking in our lives. Why not just live a full and happy life. A life that you decide the outcome.

Yes, it involves being comfortable with yourself, whether it’s physically or mentally. What you are seeking also has to drive your actions and be a determining factor in all decision you make day in and day out.

Getting ahead in life is related closely to be a leader.

– A leader for us or those close to us.

– A leader at work or in your relationships.

– A leader for your children.

– A leader for your loved ones.

– Most importantly, a leader for yourself.

What is a leader? It’s not usually what pops into everyone’s mind when the question is asked. It is a person that has a vision of what his or her life is about. It’s a person with goals. A person that is unstoppable in the face of any obstacles. A leader thrives on hurdles to jump over. When things go wrong or not as planned, a leader raises its head and overcomes. Nothing can stop them. This person, when you talk to them, always has an open mind and stays positive in any situation. The judgment of others is so far on their minds, that they almost never judge.

A leader is always discovered or sometimes starts out as an introvert. I’m not talking about a recluse or an isolated person. They are the one in the room that move around without getting noticed but everyone remembers meeting them. They bring new ideas to a conversation without pushing any agenda. Their input and opinion are sought after. You want to stay close to them for all the positive energy that is generated around them.

When do these leaders show their face? When do you really notice them? Well, you don’t really, except when things don’t go as planned. That is when they surface to take responsibility. They stay in front of every situation not to take the credit, but to be accountable for the results. Leaders are the first in the line of fire taking the hits and critics. When credit is due, they fade into the background and step out of the spotlight to let others shine.

Look around you, there is always one. Maybe not easy to notice but they are there. A leader is not a « boss ». He or she doesn’t look down on anyone. They always find a way to raise others above themselves. A leader is on the frontline elbow to elbow with everyone and weathering the storms.

Next time you are at a meeting, in a crowd or at some place where there are lots of people. Try to identify a leader. Don’t look at the obvious. Look in the corners and in the shadows. I also dare you to look inside yourself, maybe the LEADER is hiding there.

Are you a leader?