The Art Leading and Succeeding in the 21 st Century
On any given day of the week more than two billion people connect with the world through the power
of internet technology. As business owners and more importantly change agents, one pervasive
question that continues to arise is, “How do we stand out in a crowded market place?”
In order to attain game changer status, it is critical to avoid the natural proclivity to mimic what is
currently being produced within your industry. The race to success has led many leaders off the path of
authenticity, and creativity merely to attain an empty trophy called notoriety.
I believe what will be required for the next generation of influencers is to answer the call to
servanthood. We have the courage to leave without any guarantee of success. We step out in faith
rather than dwell in disbelief. We challenge the status quo instead of remaining content with a lack of
commitment. We conduct business with pure motives, giving freely without expecting anything in
return. We are others centered, not ego smitten.
This driving force of greatness builds legacy using five keys of leading and succeeding: Inspire, Instruct,
Influence, Impart and Impact.
1) Inspire-The power to breathe new life into the hearts and minds of those following your lead. It is
derived from the sweet nectar of doing what you love irrespective of earning one ounce of income from
your efforts.
2) Instruct- Many visionary leaders struggle with providing clear and distinct directions to those under
their command. In the words of Albert Einstein, “If you can’t explain it simply, you don’t understand it
precisely.”
3) Influence- What type of leader do you aspire to become known as, brilliant or tyrant? Who you are is
more important that what you do. Contrary to popular belief your greatest asset is in your name not
your bank.
4) Impart- In today’s fast paced dash to the finish line many have forgotten the art of depositing value
before withdrawing interest. Over 80 % of first time communications that I receive from an individual on
social media is self-serving. They typically, want to know if I will purchase an item, complete a survey,
sign up for a free coaching call with a hidden pitch waiting in the wind or participate on an upcoming
project without ever inquiring about what currently matters most to me. Simply stated, “Build before
you beg.”
5) Impact-As you seek to become a value focused leader, understand that to whom much is given much
will be required. You were created to impact nations for good and not evil. Your resolve to be a beacon
of light will radiate limitless possibilities to numerous souls who otherwise may never believe.
Lastly, “If you want to build a ship, don’t drum up the men to gather wood, divide the work and give
orders. Instead, teach them to yearn for the vast and endless sea.” –Antoine de Saint-Exupery
