I used to do a lot of leadership training, especially for indigenous folks who believed that our communities needed stronger, healthier leaders. And often, as part of that work, I was asked what I believed would determine if someone became a great leader or not.

For decades now, I have answered that with the following exercise …

Think of the people you want to help/lead.

On a scale of 1-10, with complete honesty, how much do you truly believe in their ability to improve their circumstances, their skill level, or whatever you are trying to lead/inspire them to do?

Your answer says everything.

For example, how much do I believe that this country will be able to reconcile?

My answer – 110%. I believe with all my heart that indigenous and non can work and live and play together respectfully and harmoniously.

And that, my friend, is why I can lead.

Because if there is one thing I know for sure, the people you lead will strive for the bar you honestly believe they can reach.

If you set the bar low, if you think you need to “save” them, if you think they “don’t know better”, if you look down on them in anyway … well then, it is you that has to grow before you can help them.

Because great leaders believe in those they lead, and then their followers do too.

Food for thought …
 

I love you!
HUGSSSSSSSS
Sandi