John Maxwell says, "Leadership is influence. That's it. Nothing more; nothing less." So, according to his definition, we are all leaders on some level. Whether you are leading a family, an organization, a little league sports team, a committee, a business, or a multi-million dollar enterprise - you influence others. Leadership certainly has its rewards and challenges, but I believe there is another aspect that deserves some careful thought and action. It is what I call the "Debt of Leadership" - the things I "owe" to those I influence.
Consider these things:
• I owe excellence. I should be the very best I can be as a person and as a leader. That means I must continue to grow.
• I owe decisiveness. I must be able to make good, informed decisions even in difficult circumstances. That means I must gather information and learn to apply wisdom.
• I owe what I know. I must be willing to share insights and instruction in a helpful way. That means I must learn from my victories as well as my mistakes.
• I owe right relationships. In as much as possible, I should be at peace with others. This means I must practice forgiveness and reconciliation. I must take time to notice the positive in others. This means I will give credit to others for their accomplishments.
• I owe gratitude. I must practice a thankful attitude in the situations I face. This means I will express gratitude for the blessings, the opportunities, the resources and the people who walk alongside me.
The "Debt of Leadership" must be paid each day. As it is paid, you will find that what you have invested will begin to multiply and return to you. Your diligence in leadership will not only "pay off" for you, but for those you influence as well.
