I’ve had the opportunity to be a part of ILEAD, a series of Leadership Working Groups and Certificate Programs in the past and I’d like to share the 3 most important lessons that have helped me evolve into the person I am today.

#1 Leadership Is a Privilege, not a Right

We often think that because we hold titles and positions we are the ruling “Leader”, and others will be ready to follow. That reality isn’t true. Leadership is not achieved by an individual.  Leadership happens when your team makes the conscious decision to support you and play a part in achieving your vision. It is an earned privilege that is bestowed by your group.

#2 Together We Can Achieve so Much More

Simply put, “WE > I”, and by quickly accepting this simple truth we can break down all the traditional barriers to effective collaboration. Your role as a team lead isn’t to achieve your vision, to hustle, to overpower, or to dominate a project. It isn’t to be the rock-star who brings in all of the results and glory. Your role as leader is to empower your team members and to challenge them outside of their comfort zones. To help them realize THEIR potential and support them in achieving their goals.

#3 Empathy Is Key

Empathy is defined as the ability to understand and share the feelings of others, to take on their perspectives and see the world through their eyes. Empathy is the core ingredient to understanding, and being able to understand the needs, strengths, and goals of your team members is critical to be able to lead them. Leading begins with a foundational focus on your team, not with you.

These are the core lessons that have meant the most to me. I hope that they resonate with all of you in some shape, form or way and that you too can reflect on what being a leader means to you.