The simple definition of “leader” is someone in command of, or the main player in, a group or organization.
I have a slightly different point of view. I see true leadership as being the change you desire to see in the world. It isn’t about having followers, telling people what is right or wrong, or having the answers. Great leaders’ function from a “global wellness” view, where the well-being of all is included in the choices made. And, most importantly, “all” includes you.
To lead your life from including you in the picture, here are 6 elements you need to consider:
Stop putting yourself last
We are willing to see the greatness in others and treat them with regard, but rarely do the same for ourselves.
What change do you desire to see in the world? More kindness? Happiness? Joy? Laughter? Financial empowerment? People nurturing, caring and having gratitude for themselves and each other? Loving their body? Acknowledging their brilliance?
Ready to walk your talk and desire the same for you? Have some honest reflection, and ask:
- Do I treat myself with the same regard I treat others?
- What would it be like if I treated myself the way I desire others to treat themselves?
Allow others to contribute to you… and even better, ask!
Being a leader not about proving you can do it on your own, or only asking for help when there’s a problem. Can you truly be a leader for a greater, more inclusive world, if you don’t let the world in?
Being willing to ask for, and receive the contribution of others is a gift to the planet, because by adding other energies to your creations, they have the capacity to become something far greater than even you could predict.
Each day, ask:
- Who or what could I add to my life that would contribute to me?
- What have I been unwilling to ask for, that if I did, would make my world greater?
Trust you
How often do you judge your capacity to make a difference, rather than believe in you? Without trust in you, you cannot fully value and embrace your unique difference. Listening to your gut instincts and innate awareness, rather than what others believe is right, is key to true self-leadership and will lead you to accomplish more and greater.
Create greater self-trust with these daily questions:
What do I know is possible that no one else does?
What would be created if I was willing to trust and follow my instincts and choose what works for me?
Nurture your body
Your body is your constant companion. It goes everywhere you do, it allows you to experience the world with its wonderful senses, and it constantly gives you new information and insights. Being a leader with your body is not about telling it what to do, but being willing to include its needs and desires. Don’t wait for issues such as stress, anxiety, injuries or illness to let you know it is time to change something.
Prioritize and include your body’s well-being and do something that nurtures your body every day, such as moving your body, spending time in nature, and including nurturing touch, like massage or even a hug!
Create financial wellness
Are you willing to challenge limited perspectives to expand your financial future? Being a leader includes taking the lead with your finances. Educate yourself about money. Create financial clarity. Be willing to have money (is it easier to change the world with or without money?) and seek revenue possibilities.
Here are key questions to lead your life in creation of financial wellness:
- What is my exact current income and expenditure?
- How much revenue must I create per year to have the life I desire?
- Where can I put my money today to create more money now and in the future?
Be willing to create a future that doesn’t yet exist
The greatest leaders are those whose vision extends far beyond what is currently seen as normal, possible or real. They know that through their actions, they can bring to fruition things that don’t exist yet.
Key to this is having unlimited curiosity. Remain curious by developing a mindset of:
- What else is possible I have not yet considered?
- How does it get any better than this?
- What future am I capable of creating that I have never acknowledged?
We all have the ability to look at the world and see how each choice we make can contribute to our lives and others. We empower ourselves with our willingness to include all people and perspectives. Imagine a world where nothing and no one is judged and all is acknowledged and valued—including every part of you. Is that the kind of life you would like to lead?
Laleh Hancock is a transformational facilitator and business coach with more than 25 years of experience building companies and individuals that win. She is the founder and president of Global Wellness for All. Whether partnering with a Fortune 500 company or an entrepreneurial stay home mum, Laleh is dedicated to empowering people and organizations of all ages and stages to grow and expand. Laleh is a certified Facilitator for Access Consciousness, including Being You, a specialty program of Access Consciousness. She meets people where they are and provides practical tools to empower people to create more joy, ease and possibilities in life. Laleh served on the Governor’s Maryland Caregivers Support Coordinating Council for four years. Follow on Twitter at@Belapemo.
To enjoy more articles, Click Here Must Reads.