Don’t ask yourself what the world needs. Ask yourself what makes you come alive, and do that. Because what the world needs is people who have come alive. – Howard Thurman
If you lead an organization, or are preparing yourself to lead the organization of your dreams, then be in touch with your passion. When I question leaders about their vision, and then ask them to define their passion for that vision, I often get responses describing the desired results for others. Many times, it takes quite a bit of questioning to arrive at a definition of the passion that resides in the heart of the leader. Once we arrive at that moment of clarity in the discussion, then it is possible to move forward and describe desired outcomes, and know that there is a good chance of achieving those outcomes.
There are way too many leaders who feel trapped in a position, for reasons other than following their passion. When I shop in a store, eat in a restaurant, or receive a service, I am impressed, feel more engaged, and am better served when I can sense the passion in the person who is providing me goods or services. I feel fully engaged with that person. How important is that? Apply that perspective to leadership. If the people you lead can sense your passion, don’t you think that they will be influenced by that passion?
TIP: The passion you share is the passion you will receive in return.
Hugh Ballou
The Transformational Leadership Strategist