Where did half of the year already go? Can you believe it is July and so much has already happened? It is a good thing that the best leaders track time and know that life is too short not to take the lead.
But, what does that really mean? Sure, it makes sense to take the reins. Leaders who have what it takes step up to the plate and step into the limelight on a frequent basis. So, how can we translate that for those of us who aspire to become the best possible leaders?
That’s easy! Just take a look at history and those who have shared their perspectives with us throughout the years. We need the best wisdom and insight to survive. Look at the most successful leaders who have coaches, mentors, and allies.
In the same way, I often refer clients to the seven fundamentals in my book Leadership Building Blocks: An Insider’s Guide to Success. I make sure they know what it takes and how to reasonably apply key principles and life lessons to every bottom line.
Balance – Victor Hugo once said that “Short as life is, we make it still shorter by the careless waste of time.” Only the best leaders know that they must maximize every moment, relationship, and dynamic. They do not sit idle wondering what will come next.
Everything is Global – Ralph Waldo Emerson was right on when he said that “Life is not so good but there is always time for courtesy.” Taking time to be grateful and appreciative of those who follow them is how the best leaders survive. They are revered for their ability to retain support and respect simultaneously.
Legacy-minded – Leaders who are on top of their game pay attention to legacy. Why? Corita Kent once said that “Life is a succession of moments. To live each one is to succeed.” Just making a way to the next step is more than enough. It is about passing relishing sweet success every minute that it happened. And, in turn, it is about passing that along to the next round of leaders.
Is life really too short? Not for the brightest leaders among us.
-Dawn McCoy, author of Leadership Building Blocks: An Insider’s Guide to Success
