What is Leadership, Really?
If you’ve ever felt unsure whether you’re a leader, you’re not alone.
Leadership isn’t easy to define.
Is leadership a personality type?
Is it about confidence?
Are leaders the ones who are bold and out in front?
Can anyone become a leader, or is leadership something you’re born with?
Is it about having followers?
We’ve been handed some narrow ideas of what leadership looks like: strong, decisive, confident, in control. But, there are many types of leaders and there is more than one way to lead.
“There are almost as many definitions of leadership as there are persons who have attempted to define the concept.”
Leadership is often associated with out-in-front leaders who unite people toward a shared goal. That type of leader is essential—when a group needs to move in one direction. But humans are not always a group heading in the same direction.
We are all unique individuals on unique life journeys and we need leaders for all the seasons. We need leaders for personal development, in friendships, families, neighbourhoods, and communities.
Leadership isn’t just a what—it’s a when and how.
What makes someone a great leader in one setting might not be helpful in another. In a medical emergency, we look to a medic. At a family gathering, it’s usually someone who fosters connection. In a neighbourhood watch group, it’s often someone with protector energy and strong local awareness. Out-in-front leaders are not the right fit for all of these situations.
Different situations require different kinds of leaders.
When I look back at who has had the greatest impact on my life, they aren’t the flashy, out-in-front leaders. Instead, they are the leaders who led quietly and generously in everyday situations. Most of them don’t know that I looked to them as leaders, but I was watching their lives and learning how I wanted to live. I noticed their posture in the world, how they treated people, how they advocated for health, and how they lifted others up. They changed my life. Most of them have no idea.
Through their examples I learned that leaders are diverse and each of them impacted my life in distinct ways. We are all beautifully different—and we each bring unique expressions of leadership through our lives.
Leadership isn’t about being impressive and having “followers.” Leadership isn’t a role you fill or position of power. Leadership is simply leading others. And all of us are already doing that, whether we know it or not.
So, if you’re wondering if you’re a leader, let’s settle it: You are.
Let’s move on to more important questions: How can I be a good leader?
It’s time to develop your unique strengths and confidence as a leader.
With you in the journey,
Justine
Reflection:
Where in your life are you already leading—but haven’t called it that yet?