Be a "Leater": Others are Depending On It
Nov 21, 2016
Recently, I received an important reminder from an unlikely source: my 9 year-old daughter. She had noticed a drop in my usual energy, so she made me a card at school to cheer me up.
In case you can't read it, it says:
Mom Be a Leater.
I was so touched when she gave it to me and after thanking her, I asked her why she'd made it.
She said, "Well you help leaders, right? That must mean you are one too and that you should keep doing it!"
The important reminder was this: people are looking to you for guidance, for positive energy, and for a path forward.
Whether it's your work teammates, your family members, or friends, they notice and respond to how you deal with situations--especially in times of transition, busy-ness, or even an awkward holiday family meal.
That's not to say that we can't have moments when we are off our game; it's just a reminder that what you say and do matters, and people take cues from your behavior. So choose wisely.
It was also a reminder of the importance of cherished relationships and what really matters. The inside of the card reads: You are awesome.
And I wanted to remind you of that too.
As the end of the year approaches, I wish you renewed commitment to your mission and renewed gratitude for the gifts, relationships, and talents you've worked hard for.