“You are not here solely to earn a paycheck,” stated President Woodrow Wilson. “Your purpose is to help the world thrive more fully, with a broader perspective, a deeper spirit of hope, and remarkable achievements. You are destined to enhance the world, and you diminish your own potential if you overlook this mission.”
Each of us operates according to a distinctive set of values. These values may not often be documented or verbally expressed, but they empower us to withstand turmoil or uncertainty—changing careers mid-path, for instance. However, taking the time to contemplate and write them down adds significant weight and permanence to them.
I had the opportunity to meet two wealthy individuals who are also partners in life. We engaged in a lengthy conversation, sharing our backgrounds and discussing the factors that contributed to their achievements. Like many stories from those who have attained high levels of success, theirs involved tremendous effort, resilience, and perfect timing. The husband pioneered the home warranty segment in real estate years ago, while the wife launched an online auction platform amidst the economic downturn of 2008.
As with every guest on the Brilliant Thoughts podcast, I inquired about their secrets to success. Almost in unison, they replied with the word, “resilience.”
In the days that followed, I reflected on this discussion and its central theme of resilience. The reality is that life guarantees you will encounter difficulties, disappointments, and failures. Your response to these challenges will significantly influence your overall well-being. This is why resilience is essential. It embodies the core and essence of powerful success stories, driving us toward our aspirations and the individuals we wish to become.
Witnessing a leader confront hardship with steadfastness and determination is truly inspiring. Yet, resilience alone does not suffice, which prompted me to formulate six leadership principles—a blend of essential elements of effective leadership shaped by years of interviews with distinguished leaders, extensive reading on the subject, and engaging influential figures on my podcast.
I trust these principles will guide you, whether you are entering a leadership role for the first time or are an experienced executive at the C-Suite level.
1. Innovation: An exceptional leader seeks to create an influence in the world—through different approaches or the development of entirely new industries.
2. Systems: Every effective leader recognizes the significance of systems and processes. Without these, scaling is impossible. Without scaling, substantial growth cannot occur. Systems are essential for establishing repeatable steps.
3. People First: Top leaders prioritize people above all else. Take Sam Walton’s perspective: “To run a successful business, your staff must feel that you are supporting them—not the other way around.” Progress halts without the right individuals and a respectful approach to their needs.
4. Awareness: Whether referred to as emotional intelligence, social consciousness, or just awareness, it is vital for leaders. Awareness involves understanding the implications of your actions and words, which is often lacking in many so-called leaders today.
5. Resilience: In light of inevitable setbacks and challenges in business and life, it’s essential to possess the passion and grit to persevere. Great leadership demands resilience because there will be tough times and days when you might wish to step back from your leadership role.
6. Kindness: Amidst a landscape filled with hostility, anger, and extreme opinions, kindness may seem like a fading value. I want to emphasize that the greatest leaders exemplify kindness and compassion. They set aside their own interests and exhibit empathy. They lead with love, hope, and grace, embodying kindness, which in turn dismantles barriers and brings people together.
