Do we remember when we first wanted to become leaders? What were we doing? For most of us, we were followers. Not only were we great producers, excelling at operational levels, but we were influencing others and supporting the actions of others while serving as informal peer leaders.

No one paid us to lead. No one rewarded us for supporting the success of others. We did it because we believed whole-heartedly in what we were doing. We didn’t do it for ourselves or for recognition. We stayed below the radar and we did what we did for them – for others.

This is the part of the mojo that many leaders – many of us – forget and consequently fail to practice. Re-learn to lead and positively influence others effectively by practicing the same types of principle-based, supportive, title-less, richly influencing behaviors that got our juices flowing in the first place!

Hi Todd–thanks for adding to our conversation. Selection and engagement are important at all levels in the organization. I keep thinking that selection is going to be the “next big thing” that we are talking about in the leadership arena. One of the traits for an aspiring leader that I would be looking for is someone who is “others focused” vs. “self-focused.” To me, that seems like a prerequisite for a good leader.

David, thank you for your kind remarks! I definitely thought you.wrote a wonderful and insightful post and it deserves more recognition. As well, it’s my goal to start promoting others’ works as I can. Thank you and let’s stay in touch! -John

Hi John–thanks for reblogging this post on your website. It looks like we are like-minded. I saw on your website that a part of your mission is to help others reach their potential through recognizing and releasing their unique giftedness–a great mission statement for all leaders!

Hi Onyi–thanks for your comment and reminder that leadership is about helping people get to places and levels of achievement that benefit both them and their organizations. It’s not so strange to see leadership as a form of service to others when you look at it this way!