How do you define leadership? Well, it's not about the corner office, position, or flashy title behind your name. Rather, leadership is influence. period. It can be how you show up, how you influence others, and how you move people towards your vision – running a global business, managing your team, or practicing self-leadership.
As John C. Maxwell famously said, “Leadership is influence, not more than that, less.” And it changes everything. Because it means that anyone can lead. Where they are. Right now.
The nature of true leadership
At its heart, leadership is relationships. It's not about control, it's about connections. A true leader won't force it. They are inspirational. They don't ask. They demonstrate. And they don't compete for attention. They gain trust through consistency, clarity and courage.
Whether you're one or a thousand, the principles remain the same. First you guide yourself. It will affect others the second most.
Want to increase your influence? Here are 5 powerful leadership hacks to help you:
1. Leading yourself like a professional
Before you can guide someone else, you need to guide you. In other words,
• Displays on time.
•Manage your way of thinking.
• Survive the standards expected of others.
Hack: I start every day by asking, “Would you like to follow me today?” Be cruel and honest.
2. Develop your vision and communicate it clearly
People don't follow people – they follow clarity. If you don't know where you're going, then there's no one else.
Hack: Practice summarizing your vision in one sentence. If you can't simply say it, you don't own it yet.
3. Build reliability through consistency
Leadership is more about personality, not about charisma. You won't gain influence by talking. Especially when it's difficult, you get it by walking consistently.
Hack: Minors and excessive streamers. Build a reputation that speaks more eloquently than you.
4. Make others feel like they're seeing and listening to it
People forget what you said, but they never forget how you made them feel. Leadership is about impact, and impact arises from connections.
Hack: In every conversation, ask more than you say. Then, listen to it.
5. Hugging feedback like a champion
An influential leader is the feedback magnet. They are not defensive – they are curious. They know that every blind spot you fix adds to your power and leads well.
Hack: Ask someone you trust: “Does one of the things I do limit my influence?” Contemplate their answer. Apply that.
It's not something given, it's built on influence
Many believe that leaders are born and merely “leaders of nature.” But it's a complete myth! truth? Leadership is a skill set, not a personality type. It is built by small, daily choices. By owning your story. Take responsibility. It manifests itself in boldness, humility, and a ruthless commitment to growth.
There's no need to wait for permission to lead. You must intentionally start to influence your world. Leadership is not a position. That's a decision. Make it every day.
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