Hey there everybody. Welcome to the first episode of Lead for Life,
where we explore leadership beyond the boardroom.
In these episodes,
we're going to explore the ins and outs of leadership in our everyday lives.
I'm your host, Tim Jolly.
And today we're going to be diving into some challenging misconceptions.
You see, before we start talking and walking through what leadership is and
how it applies to other aspects of our life,
we really need to explore what leadership is not.
And we're going to shed some light on some myths that often cloud our
misunderstanding.
So grab your favorite beverage, find a cozy spot, and let's get started.
So one of the reasons why we started this podcast was to help people get a
better understanding of what leadership is and how it applies to our
everyday lives and our relationships.
The problem is there's a lot of misconceptions about leadership and so much
of the information that is put out to get people to be better leaders,
they're always geared towards CEOs or upper level management or senior
pastors of mega churches.
And the problem is there's so much of that that still applies to our everyday
lives for all of us.
So we wanted to start out by just debunking some of the misconceptions
that we experienced when it comes to leadership.
First off, we need to understand that leadership is not about you.
We need to debunk the myth that leadership is all about the leader.
It's easy to fall into the trap of thinking that leadership revolves
around our own achievements, status and ego, but truly we need to
understand that leadership is selfless.
It's about serving others, lifting them up and creating an environment
where everyone thrives.
So if you're in it just for a personal gain, it's probably time for a mind
shift.
What's that look like?
Well, at home, instead of seeking personal recognition, empower family
members, encourage their growth, celebrate their achievements and create
a supportive environment.
And then in the community, volunteer selflessly, serve at local shelters,
cleanup parks or mentor youth.
Leadership here is about making a positive impact, not personal glory.
Number two, leadership is not about power.
Ah, the allure of authority and control, but leadership isn't a power trip.
It's not about wielding influence to dominate or manipulate.
Instead, it's about empowering others.
Sharing power and using it responsibly.
Remember the best leaders don't hoard power.
They distribute it like seeds, nurturing growth.
At work, share decision making power with your team, involve them in
project planning, solicit their input and trust their expertise.
And then with your friendships, be an equal partner.
Avoid dominating conversations or imposing your preferences.
True leadership is about collaboration, not just about
communication, not control, which is a good transition into number three,
control, control freaks.
Listen up, leadership isn't about micromanaging every detail.
It's about setting a vision, providing guidance and then trusting
your team to execute.
Let go of the need to control every outcome, embrace flexibility,
adaptability and the beauty of collaboration.
Instead of micromanaging your child's homework, set clear
expectations and let them take ownership.
Trust their process.
I mean, with organizing events, delegate tasks when planning
gatherings, allow others to contribute their ideas and skills.
Which brings us to number four.
Leadership is not about doing it yourself.
Raise your hand if you've ever thought, if you want something
done right, do it yourself.
Well, leadership isn't a solo act.
It's about leveraging the collective genius of your team.
Delegate, empower and recognize that you don't have to be the
hero in every situation.
With household chores, involve everyone.
Delegate chores, teach responsibility and appreciate
each family member's contribution.
With group projects in school or work, collaborate, divide tasks
based on strengths, the end result is richer when everyone contributes.
Number five.
Leadership is not about doing all the communicating.
Communication matters, but leadership isn't about being
the loudest voice in the room.
It's about active listening, asking questions and creating
space for others to share their perspective.
Sometimes the most powerful leadership moments happen in the
silence between the words.
In family discussions, practice active listening.
Let every family member express their thoughts without
interruption and in team meetings as a leader, encourage quieter
team members to share their insights.
Create a safe space for diverse voices.
Number six.
Leadership is not about always feeling confident.
Confidence is great, but vulnerability is equally important.
Leaders don't have all the answers and that's okay.
Admit when you're unsure.
Seek input and learn alongside your team.
Authenticity trumps false confidence every day.
Admit when you're uncertain.
Seek advice, learn and grow because that vulnerability builds trust.
And parents acknowledge that parenting isn't always easy.
Seek the support of other parents and learn from them and
their experiences.
Number seven.
Leadership isn't about having all the answers.
Spoiler alert, you're not Google.
Leadership isn't about being an encyclopedia of knowledge.
It's about fostering a culture of curiosity, continuous
learning and collaboration.
Sometimes the best response is, let's figure this out together.
I've always said it's okay to say, I don't know.
Always follow that up with, but I'll find out.
Involve family members in decision making.
Work it out together.
Sometimes just listening empathetically to a friend is more
valuable than providing solutions.
And number eight, leadership is not about demeaning others.
Leaders lift, they don't tear down.
Demeaning others, belittling their efforts or creating a toxic
environment, not leadership.
Instead, celebrate wins, acknowledge growth and build a
team that's valued and respected.
In relationships, avoid belittling comments.
Celebrate each other.
Celebrate the steps that you go through in life, growing and
getting stronger.
In community, lift others up.
Encourage, appreciate and build a positive atmosphere.
So there you have it.
What leadership is not.
Now, this is not an all-encompassing list.
I'm sure there's plenty of other things that leadership is
not, but these are some of the big things that really kind of
stand out.
And as you navigate life, whether at work, home, or in your
community, keep these concepts in mind.
Leadership is about humility, empathy, and making a positive
impact.
Together, we can redefine leadership beyond stereotypes.
You can be the leader who inspires, empowers, and leaves a
positive legacy.
If you enjoyed this episode and found it helpful, and you think
others might find it worthwhile as well, please give us a like
and share it with your families and friends.
That's how we get the word out.
Remember, Lead For Life drops a new episode every other Friday
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If you have a topic you'd like us to discuss or a question
you'd like to ask, you can email Lead for Life at lead
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That's all one word.
lead4life2024@gmail.com.
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Thanks for tuning in to Lead For Life.
Until next time, keep leading your life.