A Lesson in Leadership

Last week, the long-awaited decision by Lebron James to return to the Cleveland Cavaliers both shocked and excited the sports world.  To some, it defied logic.  To others, it was a miracle come true.  What many might miss in this outcome is the opportunity to recognize a truly great lesson in leadership.

In his written statement, Lebron James showed why he is arguably not just the greatest NBA player in his generation, but that he is a selfless, genuine leader.  His decision to “return home” transcends basketball.  He did it because of his “calling.”  He wanted to bring hope to those he left.  He wanted to inspire his hometown fans.  He expressed his obligation to lead, and that he takes that responsibility very seriously.

But even before this in his essay, as he called it, he acknowledged mistakes he had made when he left Cleveland four years ago.  He came to realize his mistakes as he matured during those years.  He had grown up, from a young man seeking championships to a leader who wanted to make a difference in the lives of those in his community.  He had already achieved success for himself.  Now he wanted to achieve significance by helping others.  This ability to be introspective, and to express humility in the process, especially for one so famous, is a sign of rare and unique leadership.

So don’t miss the lesson here.  We’ve all made mistakes.  We’ve all blown it at times.  But the true measure of our leadership will be our ability to rise above those mistakes and to “do the right thing.”  Lebron did it.  He taught us a lesson.  Now what will we do?

Are You a Leader of People?

People leaders have these important traits. They:

• Enjoy working around others and know how to create a following.
• Invest time and energy in people and inspire them with their insight and abilities.
• Are motivated to help others achieve.
• Get energized as a result of their followers’ success.
• Are good at relating to many different temperaments and personalities.
• Understand that true leadership is a product of quality relationships.

If you are a leader of people, you possess many, if not all, of the above qualities. If you don’t, and you lead people, there is room to grow and develop. It’s never too late to learn.

Here are a few Business & Life Tips to think about…..

Business Tips:

• If your actions inspire others, then you are leading. Look over your shoulder from time to time to see who’s following.
• Great brands don’t just provide good products or services. They change peoples’ lives through association and emotion.
• Responsibility is something you take when a need reveals itself. Few jump to grab it, and wonder why they are passed by.

Life Tips:

• Stop worrying about yourself and your problems. Real joy comes from helping others, so start now by re-setting your priorities.
• Take advantage of what you’ve been blessed with: intelligence, strength, perseverance, morality, wisdom, and sound judgment.
• Giving money to support your favorite charity is good and noble. But if you can’t give money, give your time.

Tags: Business Tips, Character, Crisis Management, Determination, Developing Leaders, Dreams, Drive, Ethics, Family, Friends, happiness, Humility, Integrity, Knowledge, Leadership Excellence, Leadership Skills, Life Tips, Motivation, Personal Development, Reputation, Responsibility, Success, The Mind of a Leader, Values, Vision