What is leadership?🤔🏛️

Now more than ever, in this fast-paced and ever-changing world filled with political turmoil, it is crucial to understand what leadership truly is. Equally important is being aware of ourselves and those around us who lead.

Today’s word count: 585

Estimated read time: 3 min 14 sec.

Quote 1:

"Leadership is not about being in charge. It is about taking care of those in your charge."

- Simon Sinek (author, motivational speaker, and leadership expert; author of the book Start With Why)

This quote hits a home run right from the start. Too often, we confuse being in charge with taking care of those we are responsible for. But if you really think about it, true leadership is not about power or authority—it’s about service and responsibility.

A great leader is like a shepherd, guiding and protecting their flock—their team. Leadership is not about standing above others but rather standing beside them and sometimes even behind them, ensuring they have what they need to succeed. True leaders put their team’s well-being and growth ahead of their own ego or personal gain.

Being a great leader also means being willing to stand up for your people, to defend them when needed, and to create an environment where they feel valued, safe, and empowered. Leadership is not about control; it’s about building trust, fostering collaboration, and inspiring others to be their best.

Quote 2:

“Two most important aspect of leadership are vision and holding people to a high standard.”

- Ben Wilson (podcaster, producer, and strategist; he hosts How to Take Over the World)

Being a good leader means all of the above—caring for your people, guiding them, and standing up for them—but it also means leading by example.

What does that mean in practice? Well, taking care of your team is essential, but as a leader, you are also on a mission—a mission that you and your team embark on together. That’s why holding yourself to the highest standard and expecting the same from your team is of utmost importance for the success of the journey.

However, high standards alone are not enough. They must be complemented by a clear vision—a destination you are leading toward. Even the newest, most advanced ship will never make it out of the harbor if it doesn’t know where it’s going. Don’t be that ship. Don’t drift aimlessly at sea. Being a leader means taking control of the rudder and steering with purpose.

Quote 3:

"The first and best victory is to conquer self."

- Plato (Greek philosopher, thinker, idealist; a foundational figure in Western philosophy)

We’ve talked a lot about leading others and leading by example, but what about the hardest leadership of all? The leadership of oneself. I saved this topic for last so that it sticks with you the most.

Not everyone aspires to be a leader in the traditional sense, and that’s completely fine. In fact, a well-functioning society needs a balance of different roles. However, in my opinion, true leadership starts with being in charge of oneself. And mastering self-leadership is the most important journey you will ever undertake.

Being a healthy, strong, stable, disciplined, and helpful member of society doesn’t just improve your own life—it naturally inspires and influences those around you. This is what true leadership is all about. Own it.

How can you take ownership and leadership over just one situation today? Think about it—and act on it.

Love you, Igor