I believe in Leading by Example

Most of us have heard the saying “do as I say, not as I do”. This usually is right after a parent does something they should not be doing but let’s face it doesn’t hold much water. My oldest daughter is 3 years old and we have a rule of only 1 piece of candy. So when I snuck 2 pieces the other day my daughter was quick to correct the error of my ways. But we don’t always have a 3 year old to get us back in line. This is why I believe in leading by example.

Throughout the world, leaders leverage their strengths to help teams and individuals get the job done. In order for a leader to excel they must do what they say they will do. One must be honest to those that follow and remember everyone’s opinion matters. Leaders must take ownership of the work assigned to them. Those involved will see this and be willing to put in the extra time. A good leader knows the importance of understanding the details. It is critical for leaders to look out for what the future has in store and prepare as necessary. Lastly they must always build relationships with those around them, these relationships are what makes a leader successful.

I enjoying taking my jeep offroad and one of the first things you learn when on the trial is to watch and follow how the person in front in you went over a obstacle. We call this “follow the line”. My hope is as a leader that people around me will follow my line. I want my memory to those as a leader to be one that wasn’t afraid to do what needed to be done. More importantly I try everyday to be the person that my children will look towards for help with life’s obstacles.

In a day where someone’s word is no longer good enough, I strive to be one that can be held accountable. My grandpa use to say that mites are only found on a chicken’s rear. To me this means that you are either going do something or you’re not. My faith teaches that someone who is lukewarm will be spit out. Much the same can be said for leaders who are unclear and don’t stay on task. Leaders who teach their knowledge to others will be successful.

I believe in leaders who say “do as I do”.