And in the end we follow them
not because we are paid
not because we might see some advantage,
not because of the things they have accomplished
not even because of the dreams they dream
but simply because of who they are:
the man, the woman, the leader, the boss
standing up there when the wave hits the rock,
passing out faith and confidence like life jackets,
knowing the currents, holding the doubts,
Imagining the delights and terrors of every landfall:
captain, pirate, and parent by turns,
the bearer of our countless hopes and expectations.
We give them our trust. We give them our effort.
What we ask in return is that they stay true.
-William Ayot
As a leader, do you stand up when the wave hits the rock? Do you stay true? Being a leader is not about techniques or theories, it is about being authentic and true to who you are; knowing yourself and knowing how to build and sustain meaningful relationships with others. If you are a leader and want to work on knowing yourself and leading with integrity and authenticity, click here.