The Essence of Deliberate Leadership: Seeing Greatness in Others

In leadership, there is a profound truth in the words of Maya Angelou: "You can’t be much of a leader if all you see is yourself. A leader sees greatness in others." This quote serves as a guiding principle for those who aspire to lead with authenticity, empathy, and vision.

Deliberate Leadership requires that we see ourselves with clear eyes. That we are self-aware and focused on improving the things that matter most. We also know how others see us and we work toward improving those connections and relationships with intention.

At its core, deliberate leadership transcends the traditional notions of authority and control. It embodies a deep understanding that true leadership is not about one's own accomplishments or stature but rather about empowering and uplifting others to reach their full potential. It's about cultivating a culture of collaboration, trust, and collective success.

Deliberate leaders recognize that greatness resides not just within themselves but also within each member of their team or organization. They understand the importance of nurturing and harnessing the unique strengths, talents, and perspectives of individuals to drive collective achievement.

One of the hallmarks of deliberate leadership is the ability to foster a culture of inclusivity and appreciation. Instead of seeking the spotlight for themselves, deliberate leaders shine it on those around them, celebrating the achievements and contributions of others. They understand that by recognizing and acknowledging the greatness in others, they inspire loyalty, motivation, and a shared sense of purpose.

Moreover, deliberate leaders prioritize mentorship and development, investing time and resources into supporting the growth and advancement of their team members. They provide guidance, feedback, and opportunities for learning, knowing that by helping others succeed, they ultimately elevate the entire organization.

In essence, deliberate leadership is about leading with intentionality and empathy. It's about having the humility to recognize that no one person has all the answers, and that true strength lies in the collective wisdom and capabilities of a team. By embracing a mindset of servant leadership, deliberate leaders inspire trust, loyalty, and commitment among their followers.

To embody deliberate leadership is to adopt a mindset of abundance rather than scarcity. It's about believing in the inherent potential of every individual and creating an environment where that potential can flourish. It requires self-awareness, empathy, and a genuine desire to see others succeed.

The essence of deliberate leadership lies in the ability to see greatness in others. It's about leading with humility, empathy, and intentionality, and recognizing that true leadership is not about personal glory but about empowering and uplifting those around you. As we embrace this ethos of deliberate leadership, we pave the way for a future where everyone has the opportunity to thrive and contribute their unique gifts to the world.

So, what do you see when you look at yourself? What do you see when you look at others? How can you be more deliberate about seeing greatness in others?

If you want to be more of a deliberate leader, start with my book on Becoming Deliberate:  Changing the Game of Leadership from the Inside Out.  Then, schedule some time for us to talk – I’d love to hear your thoughts!