Ask This Question Today

The impact of a leader as a role model has been a focal point of my leadership journey. Over the years, I've asked thousands of people about the traits of great leaders, and invariably, the idea of being a great role model surfaces. It's a well-acknowledged truth, but it's only part of the picture. The whole truth is that every leader is a role model, myself included.

Why? Because as leaders, we are constantly in the spotlight. Our teams don't just listen to what we say; they observe what we do. Our actions speak volumes, often louder than our words. This realization brings with it a significant responsibility. It's not just about what we say or intend; it's about what we actually do and how these actions are perceived and followed by our teams.

This understanding led me to a critical question that I now ask myself daily: "Did my actions yesterday model what I want my team to do now?" It's a question that forces me to reflect not just on my words but also on my actions. Are they aligning with the example I want to set?

It's important to recognize that it's not just about our intentions as leaders, but also about how our actions are experienced by others. We might have the best intentions, but if our team's experience of our leadership is not aligned with these intentions, then there's a disconnect that needs to be addressed.

So, if you find your actions aren't modeling what you want for your team, the next step is to ask yourself: "What do I need to change today?" This is about more than just leadership tactics; it's about the example we set. Whether we like it, realize it, or not, we are role models.

In closing, I encourage every leader to consistently ask themselves: "Am I leading in a way I want them to follow?" This isn't about drifting along with our leadership roles; it's about actively shaping our actions to be the role models our teams need. This is how we can truly be successful in our leadership roles.