The case for leadership

The following blog post was based on an initial article I wrote for Marketplace Matters. I’m honored to serve along side other Christ-followers who find purpose in their work and recognize the true meaning of leadership.

It is fair to say that we will all read a book or an article, at least once in our lifetime, on the topic of leadership. In fact, bookstores and libraries are packed with them. Leadership is a timeless theme that grabs the heart and soul of every man, woman or child. We’ve all heard the stories of leaders who took initiative to achieve greatness. Deep inside, our inspiration is fueled by a desire to do something bigger than ourselves. I believe that desire was placed inside each one of us by our Creator. God has called us to lead.

My experience shows me that leadership is multifaceted. It comes in different shapes and sizes. That is the blessing. Whether in business, ministry, at school or in the home, we’ve all been given a platform from which to lead. Leadership is more than just a position or a role; it goes beyond influence. Leadership is the ability to achieve objectives in a process that generates development in yourself and the people around you. Which is why we read books, attend conferences and meet with mentors. We want to lead but we too know that we need other leaders in our lives. Ultimately, leaders are followers too. We look for people wise, more knowledgable and experienced than us to show us what the path of life looks like up ahead. I think that is why God placed Proverbs 27:17 in the heart of Solomon. The wisest man of that time knew the benefits of others in our lives.

As iron sharpens iron,
so one person sharpens  another.

The call in all of us

Through all the realities that I’ve been exposed I’ve learned my biggest contribution will always be in preparing the leaders of the future. I can do that at work or at home. My most precious opportunity is with my three children. They are all different; unique. Each one with specific traits that make their personalities shine in different situations. And I encourage each of them to be a leader in their own way. Yes, I teach them lessons that will help them be effective and understand the environment around them, but I allow them to be themselves. My oldest, Caden, is creative and I can see him be flexible and open to the perspective of others. Blake, my middle child, is strong willed and I can seem him encourage and motivate a group to achieve a goal. My little girl, Ava, is sweet and I can see her balance high expectations with compassion.

We all have been called to be leaders and we will all leave a legacy. What kind of legacy will your leadership leave?