Key Takeaways
- **Managers execute processes, while leaders develop people and drive change.**
- **To become a leader, focus on “working out of your job” by taking on new responsibilities and making yourself obsolete.**
- **Leadership requires humility, self-awareness, continuous learning, and support from mentors and industry leaders.**
Imagine yourself as a young professional, eager to climb the corporate ladder. You’ve been working hard, putting in long hours, and delivering exceptional results. But as you look ahead, you realize that you’re stuck in a rut. You’re a manager, but you don’t feel like a leader. You’re good at executing processes, but you’re not inspiring others or driving change. You’re not where you want to be, and you’re not sure how to get there.
The Problem: Managers vs. Leaders
The problem is that you’ve been focusing on the wrong thing. You’ve been trying to be a good manager, but what you really need to be is a leader. Managers execute processes. Leaders develop people. Managers maintain the status quo. Leaders drive change. Managers focus on the here and now. Leaders focus on the future.
The Solution: Work Out of Your Job
The good news is that you can become a leader. It takes work, but it’s possible. The first step is to start working out of your job. This means taking on new responsibilities, stepping outside of your comfort zone, and making yourself obsolete. It means embracing your role, innovating, and grooming your successors. It means being the kind of leader that you would want to follow.
The Path: Development and Preparation
Becoming a leader is not a one-size-fits-all process. The path to leadership will be different for everyone. But there are some general principles that you can follow. First, you need to identify your areas for development. What skills do you need to acquire? What knowledge do you need to gain? Once you know what you need to improve, you can start taking steps to address those areas. Seek out mentors, read industry materials, and stay informed. The more you learn, the better equipped you’ll be to lead.
The Mindset: Humility and Self-Awareness
Leaders are not perfect. They make mistakes. They have weaknesses. But what sets leaders apart is their ability to acknowledge their shortcomings and seek continuous growth. Leaders are humble and self-aware. They know that they don’t have all the answers, and they’re always looking for ways to improve. This mindset is essential for becoming a leader.
The Support: Mentorship and Learning
No one becomes a leader overnight. It takes time, effort, and support. Mentors can provide guidance and insights. Industry leaders can share their experiences and lessons learned. The more you surround yourself with people who are already where you want to be, the faster you’ll get there.
Bonus: The Rewards of Leadership
Becoming a leader is not easy, but it’s worth it. Leaders have the opportunity to make a real difference in the world. They inspire others, drive change, and create a lasting legacy. If you’re ready to take your career to the next level, start working on becoming a leader today.
As William Burke, my mentor, once said, “If you’re not working yourself out of a job, you’re not doing your job.” Embrace this challenge, and you’ll be well on your way to becoming the leader you were meant to be.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What’s the difference between a manager and a leader?
Managers execute processes. Leaders develop people.
How can I become a leader?
Start by working out of your job. Identify your areas for development and seek out mentors and learning opportunities.
What are the benefits of becoming a leader?
Leaders have the opportunity to make a real difference in the world. They inspire others, drive change, and create a lasting legacy.
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