Leadership Is A Generational Calling – Everyday, Everywhere

Written by Dorothy Martin-Neville, PhD

Following my own adage that we are all called to be leaders of our own lives and so much more, I have noticed recently how frequently leadership is still perceived as a position rather than a skill or a calling. Perhaps because it leaves room for its opposite, if you’re not in a leadership position then there is no need to “play” leader.

How mistaken that notion is. Because every one of us is called to be a leader, to take ownership of who we are, how we live, how we behave, and how we influence. Every one of us is a role model for others. If I treat people badly, I am saying that behavior is OK. Consequently, it is implied that you can also. If I am racist, bigoted, judgmental, or righteous, I am saying that is acceptable behavior. In addition, if I do a half-hearted attempt at something I am also saying not investing your best into something is acceptable as well.

As a leader, everything we do is witnessed by someone. Have you noticed that in the business world, if a leader consistently leaves early or arrives late, this behavior begins encouraging others to become lax, even the best employees?

The power of deciding who we want to be, who we want to become, and how we want to live our life, as well as what values we choose to live by (not necessarily expounded upon), also defines the type of leader we choose to become. The example of your growth, your humility in the learning process, and your openness to change and growth calls out the same in others. Perhaps without conscious intent, you are showing others how and who to be. This is a call to consciousness.

The impact of our leadership isn’t limited to the development of an organization, through the vision, goals, process, products, and protocols we develop, it is also felt in the development of the leaders surrounding us. Calling each one of them to their best leadership skills, is in the modeling.

That is also in our example to our children, grandchildren, and so on. One of my dad’s consistent messages was “We’re family.” That was a value that was not to be questioned. If one family member truly needed help, we were all expected to show up. I passed that value onto my children and it has now been transferred to the next generation. “Family is family.”

My grandchildren may tease each other and get annoyed with each other but don’t ever say something against one of them. When one is in need you can count on the others to show up. For me, that is a point of pride. “Family is family.” A core value. A true sign of their leadership and ability, as well as their willingness to step up and take the lead as needed.

In every circumstance, the best leaders are aware that they are teaching, modeling, and calling others to live a life that is not perfect but is real, compassionate, and inspirational. They know others are watching as they call themselves and others to be their best. One step, one dream, and one example at a time.

If you are ready to lead your life on a deeper, more expanded, or more varied path, call me. I’d love to support and guide you on the way.