Leadership is a Gift

In The Art of Possibility by Benjamin and Rosamund Stone Zander we find:

Today was exceptional in that I learned leadership is not a responsibility-nobody has to lead. It’s a gift, shining silver, that reminds people huddled nearby why each shimmering moment matters. It’s in the eyes, the voice, this swelling song that warms up from the toes and tingles with endless possibilities. Things change when you care enough to grab whatever you love, and give it everything.

–Amanda Burr, student at the Walnut Hill School

I have been known to think – and write:

Everyone is a leader.

and to think of it as a responsibility to develop in ourselves the traits, talents and strengths of our leadership and to share ourselves with the world: to be the change, to lead.

Yet, this young woman, a high school student at a school for the arts, suggests that:

No one has to lead.

We choose. And we choose to give a very precious gift when we lead, especially when we lead by “grabbing whatever we love and giving it everything.” And what we give is the reminder that life itself – each moment – matters.

So why do we hold back,
let those precious moments
when we could be the one stepping up as leader,
pass by?

Do any of these resonate?

• Not me, I’m not skilled enough
• Not me, I don’t have time
• Not me, I did it last time
• Not me, she could do it so much better
• Not me, I’m too scared to put myself out there

Out where? Out where you might be seen, where your generosity, courage, willingness might actually change another’s life? How about out in that land of endless possibilities where you might change the course of YOUR life?

Next time – at work, at home, in relationship, crossing the street, wherever you are – when the voice inside says:

Do it. Yes, you. Lend your idea. Engage your heart. Now!

remember… leadership is a choice, a gift to you and to those you impact. In the words of Karen Kimsey-House, Co-Founder and CEO of Coaches Training Institute (CTI), co-author of Co-Active Coaching and Co-Active Leadership:

Jeanne, the world needs leaders now.
Get out of your shit and lead!

What’s stopping you?
What leadership choice can you make now?
What gift is yours to give today?

(*) For a unique, powerful and positive journey into the land of your leadership, check out The Zen Leader and join other women on the journey this fall.