Part 4: Is Everyone a Leader?
One of the most disputed aspects about my view of leadership is my assertion that everyone is a leader.
The arguments typically go along the lines of: if you have too many chefs in the kitchen, nothing gets done; or, I’m good at the details, but I can never seem to be effective at rallying people around a mission; or, you can’t have a team of just coaches.
I’m sure you could come up with some clever metaphor for an objection as well, but the basic argument is something like this: there are people who are simply built to be the person up front, making the critical decisions, “holding the mic” if you will. We simply call that characteristic charisma.
Admittedly, those with this gift aren’t the majority of people out there (probably a good thing). And so, the argument goes, what about the rest? If I say that “everyone is a leader”, what about the behind-the-scenes people? The “role players” on a team? How could they possibly be considered (or be asked to be) leaders?
And here’s where my argument needs a little clarification: We don’t have a common definition of what leadership is. In my opinion, leadership is influence. Simply put: do you use your unique gifting to influence people?
The mother sitting at the dinner table asking her children to tell a story about their day is offering her loving influence to her children.
The motivational speaker on stage is using her influence to inspire others to become a better version of themselves.
The dad who reschedules his meetings so he can make his kids’ ballgames is influencing the direction of his family for the next generation.
Yes, we may have incredible business leaders who drive innovation and chart new paths for consumers. But they don’t go anywhere without their advisory board, their confidantes, and those who plant seeds of compassion, refine the vision, offer direction and different perspectives than what the point person sees.
You see, everyone is a leader – we just need to be committed to leading within the areas of our own personal gifting.
Are you an encourager? Then lead by encouraging those around you.
Are you a helper? Then lead the charge to see others’ needs and step in to meet them.
Are you an observer? Then be willing to offer your wisdom to those in your sphere–they need it more than they may realize.
Are you compassionate? Then offer that perspective to a divided world.
Are you hospitable? Then love on the people around you.
You see, when we step in and take our roles seriously, we participate in the grand mission of being the best version of ourselves, while inviting others to do the same.
This is something we all have a responsibility to do.
And that, my friends, is leadership.
Questions for Reflection:
What do you think are your unique areas of gifting?
Which of these gifts have been affirmed by others?
What do people come to you for? (Advice, a listening ear, wisdom, administrative help, etc.)
Are there any areas of gifting that others see in you that you have a hard time seeing? (Pro tip: Don’t try to answer this yourself; ask those closest to you to speak in to this.)
Finish this sentence. I am gifted and equipped to lead in this way: ______________ , and I will step out in courage this week to offer that to others.
*Got pushback on my assertion that everyone is a leader? Let’s start a conversation in the comments! (I always welcome views that are different from mine; they tend to sharpen us both!)