Member-only story
Leadership Positions versus Titles
Over the last 30-some years I’ve met people that never held a leadership title, but in my view were amazing leaders in their work, and in their communities.
It was clear to me that they were the leaders, because they were the ones making things happen.
Anyone can hold a position that entitles them to “lead” people, but that doesn’t mean that they are a leader within the community. They may have POWER over the community, but that’s not the same as being a true leader.
A CEO, Director, a country/state/company President has authority, and potentially, the ability to lead. But while the position has the power to do something, it’s not necessarily because of the individual who holds that seat. Those in that seat may have the power of the leader but are not always the true leader.
A true leader is someone that inspires others.
I encourage those of you waiting (or hoping) for a position or a title to be given to you to shift your mindset about who you are and the position you have. No matter what role you play, you can become a leader in the communities you serve — if you choose to do so.
We all know there are several ways to lead — as a dictator, a servant, a manager, and many other ways. It is an evolution. You have to think about the stance you would take.
