Leadership Is Risky

Leadership is not a popularity contest—it is risky.

I have made countless decisions as a leader that people don’t agree with. I can think of many times in my career where others very boldly and clearly disagreed with my point of view.

If you are committed to playing it safe, you must get out of the game of leadership. A leader isn’t someone who can be sure they will always make the most popular choice and always garner the greatest number of votes.

A leader is someone who often says the things that others may not be willing to say—going along to get along is not the game of leadership.

A leader is someone who takes risks, who gets out on the skinny branches of life and risks it all in spite of the possibility of losing approval ratings.

My favorite definition of leadership is: One who takes responsibility for their influence.

Leadership is for brave, courageous human beings that are willing to risk being liked because they stand for something.

There’s a unique brand, a style, a promise, a pattern of leadership that you have to offer the world that you serve—and only you can do it.

There’s a particular voice that I bring to a meeting, to a weekend retreat, to a class, to a boardroom. There is a way that Lola leads that is distinct to Lola, and if I suppress or thwart or diminish my self expression as a leader, the world is robbed of the unique contribution I am here to make.

When I think about who I am as a leader, I have to constitute myself around my values. I have to get clear around what matters to me, what mission I’m on, and what I am serving and supporting.

When I am clear on my mission and values, I focus less on who likes me, and I focus more on what I’m contributing, standing for, and what I’m inviting you into.

Questions for your reflection:

• What is my unique style, thumbprint, or self expression of leadership?
• What do I value most?
• Where have I been holding myself back?
• How can I risk being liked in service and in support of my mission?

When we are playing the game of being liked, it’s a very small world.

Saying yes to leadership means saying yes to taking on your influence and making an impact and with that you are taking on the risk of judgment and criticism.

Leadership takes something that most human beings may not be willing to do. Get honest and ask yourself if you’re up for the game of leadership.

Would you like to overcome what holds you back so you can lead more courageously and authentically? Learn more about Transformational Leadership Coaching with me. I’d love to support you and your team.