The power of leadership to influence the course of others’ lives goes far beyond enhancing job satisfaction and shaping careers.
Leaders, coaches, teachers, and parents say and do things that sometimes have major, long-term ramifications on the well-being of those they lead. Unnoticed at the time and typically unknown until decades later, some of the choices leaders make in the course of an average day can profoundly impact the very arc of people’s lives.
As those people think back on what has shaped their lives, good and bad, they often point to an example set by a leader, the feedback of a coach, the words of encouragement from a teacher, or the belief of a parent.
Sometimes, the smallest of actions can have a profound influence on how people develop and evolve. Leadership changes lives. Sometimes in a big way.
Contemplating the potential impact of their words, actions, and decisions —and the tremendous responsibility that entails — can be humbling for leaders. But because the impact of their actions is largely unknown in the moment, many leaders don’t think about it much. Every once in a while, they should.
Good leaders remind themselves that their leadership really matters. The long-term effects of the choices and messages they make every day should not be forgotten or taken for granted. Small acts of comfort, encouragement, compassion, and challenge can stay with people for years to come.
Leaders who remember the powerful influence they wield often make better choices in the moment. Not because they believe any random act might have a profound and long-lasting impact, but because they see every moment as defining who they are and why they lead.
Leaders influence people in ways they may never know or even learn about. Because of what the leader says and does, those they lead may even change how they feel about themselves and their world for years to come.
The power of leadership cannot be overstated. Great leaders remember that every action, example, and message counts — but they don’t attempt to keep a tally.
They share in the wisdom of sociologist William Bruce Cameron: “Many of the things you can count, don’t count. Many of the things you can’t count, really count.” The best leaders strive to make every day add up to something special.
