Do you ever wonder why you signed up for the leadership gig? Leading others can be a real hassle, complex, frustrating, full of people issues, painful, requires you to keep learning and often pays less than being an expert in a specific area!
We all learned quickly that any idea of doing this for personal gain, power over others, more money, because I was an expert in my industry or even thinking we could do better than that lousy boss we had at the time, were not really well thought out reasons for becoming a Leader.
The Heart of Leadership
I would argue that people who love Leadership roles thrive on creating environments where individuals feel valued, motivated, and empowered to collaborate toward common objectives. One of my definitions of Leadership is:
An ability to develop an environment
where people want to work, grow and win together
for a common goal.
As I reflect on the reasons why I signed up for this Leadership gig I am reminded of some the reasons why I enjoy it so much….
Creating Incredible Environments
Creating vibrant and engaging environments where a wide range of individuals become a fired-up team is just plain fun. Sure, it’s a challenge, but building a team where people thrive and employees can genuinely say, "I just love working here!" is truly rewarding.
A team that trusts you and each other enough to take on the most daunting of tasks is a joy to be a part of. While there may be some tough conversations, debate and even disagreement; the path eventually leads to collaboration with a cry of “let’s do it!”
This kind of camaraderie is a rare beast, where team members not only work dynamically together but also celebrate each other's successes. Recognition and praise become natural, making everyone feel valued and motivated to contribute their best.
Helping people grow and develop themselves within an environment that encourages them to be their best self sends a clear message not only to them but people outside the team as well.
As this team grows, develops and transforms into a organism where the sum of individual contributions creates a dynamic where "1+1+1 = 10." This environment not only drives exceptional results and synergy but builds an element of attraction for talent and excellence.
Building Motivation and Excitement
An exciting future is a powerful motivator. One of the greatest joys of being a leader is creating and sharing a future that inspires and unites everyone in the organization. There’s something deeply fulfilling about watching people connect with a clarity of purpose, embrace shared values, and rally around achievable yet ambitious goals.
When these elements naturally flow together, it’s like watching a beautiful symphony unfold, with each person playing their part. The best part? Highlighting how everyone regardless of their role has contributed to taking the hill. It’s incredibly rewarding to see people light up with the understanding that their efforts matter.
I also love the energy that comes with shaping an exciting future. As a leader, painting a vivid picture of where we’re going and why it’s worth the journey is part of the energy that drives most leaders.
Of course, encouraging people to share their perspectives and ideas—at every level—is a vital part of this. It’s humbling and inspiring to know that the collective brilliance of the team is always greater than the sum of its parts.
When it all comes together and the team transforms into a new thing, supporting and lifting each other up, it is an unparalleled experience. Celebrating our wins, learning from our challenges, and knowing that we’re all driving toward the same goal is the essence of what I love about leadership. It’s more than just guiding a team, it’s being part of something extraordinary, every single day.
Being Part of Growth & Development
One of the most rewarding parts of being a leader is coaching and influencing others to unlock their full potential. There’s an indescribable joy in inspiring people to take action and seeing the spark of motivation turn into tangible results. Helping someone see what they’re truly capable of and then guiding them to achieve it is a privilege I never take for granted. Watching growth happen within teams—both individually and collectively—is like witnessing a masterpiece being created, one brushstroke at a time.
What makes it even more special is making success an enjoyable journey. Leadership isn’t just about reaching goals; it’s about creating an environment where growth and achievement are celebrated and fun.
Coaching, Training and encouraging people especially during challenging times, is one of the most meaningful aspects of this thing we call Leadership. It’s incredible to see people transform and rise to challenges they once thought impossible.
While you have to be purposeful about placing people in the right seats and solve the seat puzzle, finding the perfect fit where someone’s skills, passions, and potential align with the needs of the team is a thing to behold. When that alignment happens, it’s a new day. People not only perform better but also feel more fulfilled in their work.
Watching someone grow into the best version of themselves, supported by the right opportunities and encouragement, makes me feel like I’m contributing to something far greater than just achieving business goals – it’s the privilege to play a role in their journey.
So Don’t Forget Why You Signed Up
So, when things get tough and path seems a bit crazy don’t forget why you love being a leader.
The opportunity to create an environment
where people flourish, teams thrive, and extraordinary things happen.
Whether it’s shaping a vision that excites and unites, building camaraderie that turns individuals into unstoppable teams, or guiding someone to unlock their full potential, every moment feels like a privilege. Leadership allows me to celebrate growth, embrace challenges, and work alongside people who inspire me daily.