In this episode, I discuss how to become an inspirational leader.

I believe that leaders should not start with the goal of becoming an inspirational leader, as that is a self-centered perspective. Instead, becoming inspirational is a result of certain actions and learnings. Key ways to become an inspirational leader:

1. Be inspired In order to be inspirational, you need to be inspired. One way to be inspired is by keeping the company of other inspired people. Inspiration, like energy, is contagious. Another way to be truly inspired is by having a clear purpose or intention behind all your actions. To be inspired, we need to live in the present moment. This means not only being present but also "showing presence". Showing presence is being fully engaged in that moment, in partnership with whoever you are with.

2. Help people achieve their aspirations: Inspirational people are often just trying to be helpful. People feel seen, heard, and understood by them. Inspirational leaders actively help people achieve their aspirations "faster, cheaper, and better". They want to see others succeed. They inspire others to achieve and be more than what they thought was possible.

3. Believe in the potential of people: Inspirational leaders spot potential in people and believe in it even before the person sees or believes in the potential themselves. Leaders who spot limiting beliefs in the people they lead and help them change these beliefs by reiterating their belief in the person's potential are seen as inspirational.

4. Believe in and aspire for something bigger than all of us: This belief can make a leader feel inspirational. It is about making the people in our charge feel that they are part of something much bigger than their individual selves. This can be done by creating a vision that is both challenging and inspiring, and by creating a sense of togetherness and camaraderie. This sense encourages everyone to do and be better.

Conclusion:

The shift needed to become an inspirational leader is to move from thinking about "me" to thinking about "you" (the people you lead), and then to "us" (everyone put together). This requires showing presence, being empathetic, and genuinely wanting to help people achieve their goals and aspirations. The intention to help must shine through, not just to become an inspirational leader, but because it is the right thing to do. Becoming an inspirational leader is a byproduct of doing everything else right.