The Island Called Leadership

Leadership is a lonely space. There are times you look around and the only one is you. That can be a good or bad thing depending on the situation. However, I have leaned into the value of the professional network and people that serve as supports and mentors most recently. They have offered guidance and reassurance in navigating a new landscape.

As leaders, we are often busy living in the whirlwind. It is easy to lose sight of who is around us to support and guide. We tend to lean into those like us and shy away from people or opinions unlike ourselves. In developing ourselves and each other, this is the opposite of what we should be thinking. If everyone in the room always says yes to an idea, are we sure it is really a good one? Bring people to the table that are not like you—in opinion, in demographics, in status.

• Veteran leaders should provide development for those that want to be leaders. Leadership is a learned effort. While it may be more natural for some, it is still learned to some degree.

  • Be a mentor for those that are new in leadership. If we want leaders to feel less lonely, we need to be a thought partner when people need help.

  • Offer opportunities for those that may otherwise be overlooked. Are opportunities for leadership accessible by all or are the constraints defined so that only certain ones have the capacity to engage?

  • SUPPORT, SUPPORT, SUPPORT—this is a key driver to long term success. If someone feels supported and fostered in development, they are more likely to continue. Even if you don’t agree, there is always a way to show support.

  • Understand the needs they have and lean into them if you are able. Sometimes, you may have solutions that they don’t have access to themselves.