I’m currently reading a non-fiction book about a United States Marine Corps Veteran, now in his mid-40s. Early in his life, he traveled to Africa with his parents and immediately recognized that his calling was bigger than himself.
Even at the age of 20, his focus, willingness to step into some of the most challenging living situations to understand what it's like to live in Kibera, the largest urban slum in Africa (in Nairobi), his listening skills, and his ability to question himself and the world around him were nothing short of astounding.
As I read this book, I am in awe of his natural leadership abilities.
I’ll share more about this book and his story at a later date, but for now, it has inspired this week’s ‘5 Things’ post.
This post came to me in the middle of the night on Friday – as many of my posts do – inspired by this great leader and others I have read about or observed.
Once again, being a leader is not about a title. It’s a way of being. It’s a willingness to continually own, learn, and grow from our choices. It’s about purposefulness over righteousness. It’s about going for it if it matters! It’s about listening fully to the whole of a person, a group, or a situation to gain an understanding of what’s most important. And through it all - and this is a big one: it's about humility that allows others to experience their own greatness!
When I think of great leaders, like the one I am reading about now, these 5 questions seem to embody their approach. I’ve framed each question for you to ask yourself as you ponder your leadership journey.
I’d love to hear your perspectives.
And a 6th ‘HOW’ question: How will you consider these questions as you continue to grow as a leader?
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