When we talk about leadership, we often think about leading a group toward a shared goal.I define it differently.
A leader is someone who is responsible for their world.
For what they create, what they allow, and what they keep alive.Even when it is difficult or uncomfortable.Even when there are “good reasons” to protect themselves.
This responsibility rests on two movements.
First: being “response-able.”Being able to respond, rather than react.
Reacting is predictable, automatic, and often defensive.The same scenario playing out again and again.
Responding means seeing what is needed, here and now.And choosing what to say, what to do.
Second: being co-responsible.Choosing to be a co-creator, not a passenger.
Acting with the conviction that, at every moment, we are all co-responsible (100%-100%) for the experience we are living and creating.
And this is where leadership development becomes concrete.
Developing your leadership means expanding the size of the world for which you are able to be responsible.
Sometimes, that world is tiny.
“My reaction in a meeting.”“A conversation I am avoiding.”“A message I don’t dare send.”
And that is already huge.
Because it means one thing:Leadership is not reserved for top management.
Where does this vision come from?
From 20 years at the heart of change, in very different environments.And from ten years in the United States, where you quickly learn to reinvent yourself.And to stop waiting until you have all the cards in your hand before taking action.
My conviction is clear:
Every change, even when imposed, is an opportunity to develop your leadership.On one condition: becoming, or becoming again, an active participant in your own life.
We create our world every day.And life gives us multiple realities to respond to.
This capacity is available to everyone.
No title required.No need for a so-called “leader personality.”
And you, what is “your world” right now?The place where you could reclaim 5% responsibility, as early as this week?