“Great leaders don’t set out to be a leader. They set out to make a difference. It’s not about the role, it’s about the goal." -- Unknown
Many of you have aspirations to move up the corporate ladder and take on senior management roles. That was a goal of mine as well, but on my way up, I took notice of those in that role and was able to distinguish true leaders from those who were just managing.
It allowed me to determine the type of leader I wanted to become. The greatest lesson of all was recognizing that great leaders learn how to serve first and add value regardless of their title. Ultimately, they were concerned with becoming what John Maxwell calls a “pinnacle” leader, not a “position” leader. These qualities were demonstrated in the popular Marvel movie Black Panther.
We first saw the transition of power from King T’Chaka (the father) to his son, Prince T’Challa (Black Panther). The kingship was eventually challenged by Killmonger, because of a secret action King T’Chaka took that cost Black Panther the throne — so we thought.
Connecting this back to an overarching leadership lesson, we can walk away knowing that all actions have a consequence. Whatever we do in the dark will eventually find its way to light. So, as a leader, it’s good to own our decisions, but we must also understand the laws of physics -- every action yields a reaction. Unfortunately, that reaction or consequence can cost us royally.
Tip 1: Leading is not about you, but who follows you.
True leaders are not intimidated by the talents of their team. What they do instead is maximize those gifts and recognize their contributions. People development becomes a priority alongside job completion. Part of a leader’s legacy is the quality of the people they lead and seeds they sow. Leaders must prepare their team to move forward, upward and beyond. This also includes the development of their replacement. A leader without a succession plan is just a manager occupying space.
King T’Chaka told Prince T’Challa, “A father who has not prepared his children for his own death has failed them.” The same applies to a leader.
Tip 2: Leaders learn from mistakes, they don't loll over them.
Nobody is perfect. The sooner you recognize that, the more freedom you will have. Rely on your knowledge, surround yourself with a strong team, and trust your instincts to make the right decisions. If things don’t work out as planned, identify why, determine next steps, grow from it and move forward.
This is the recipe for success and intentional leading. Losing sight of the bigger picture and wallowing in the loss is what gets leaders in trouble and leads their team to lose faith in their abilities. When Black Panther was dealing with the newfound knowledge of his father’s lie, he was letting it consume him. This is when Nakia told him, “You can’t let mistakes define who you are. You have the power to define what kind of King you will be.” You have the power to define what kind of leader you will be.
Tip 3: Leaders are bold and willing to face the music, regardless of the outcome.
Everything you do as a leader will not be received and welcomed by all. But we cannot allow fear to paralyze us and keep us from making decisions and doing what is right. There are times when leaders will have to stand alone for what they believe in, just as there are times when leaders must be willing to listen to the advisement of their trusted circle. Part of being a leader is being willing to take chances. Remember, growth never happens while remaining in a place of comfort.
Princess Shuri reminded Black Panther of this when she said, “Just because something works doesn’t mean it can’t be improved.” Then Nakia challenged Black Panther to rethink his decision about doing more to help the world when she said, “We can’t let the fear of discovery keep us from doing what is right.” As a leader, you are called to be confident and provide direction. Do it with boldness and own it!
Tip 4: Leaders succeed through the power of a team, in lieu of a solo act.
Every great leader succeeds because of the people they surrounded themselves with and the bridges they've built. Jim Rohn put it like this: “You are the average of the five people you spend the most time with.” Relationship currency is the greatest asset we can tap into because everything revolves around them. When you have genuine and authentic relationships in place, they are likely to remain present during the good and bad times. King T’Challa told his team, “The wise build bridges, the foolish create barriers.” Be a leader who builds bridges for people to walk across, instead of barriers people can’t cross.
As you continue your journey of growing as a leader, use these tips to not only inspire you to greatness but empower those around you to lead effectively. Remember, it’s not about you and what others can do for you but what you can do that makes a positive difference in the lives of others and the organizations you serve.
