Have you ever wondered how the sacrifices, pain, sadness, and regrets you've faced shape your leadership journey?
After decades in higher education, I've certainly experienced my share of difficulties and made my share of mistakes. Some were small, while others were significant. In each instance, I've tried hard to learn and grow, recognizing that leadership is an ongoing journey and an endless pursuit.
For instance, my intense drive and focus on my professional life likely contributed to the breakup of my first marriage. Painful as that experience was, I learned valuable lessons that helped me become a better partner in my second marriage.
Another pivotal moment was moving out of town to seize a leadership opportunity at another university. This move came at a time when my son and daughter were still young and needed to stay with their mom.
Despite the distance, I remained committed to supporting my kids. I maintained regular communication through calls and video chats, visited them every few weeks, and hosted them during holidays and summer breaks. As they grew older, our efforts to stay connected paid off. Now, one is pursuing an undergraduate degree, and the other has just completed her master's.
Leaving wasn't easy, and it was undoubtedly harder for them than for me. I vividly remember the conversation I had with them before leaving for the new job. With tears in my eyes, I explained my decision and asked for their understanding.
Their response? "Dad, you got this. We'll be fine. Go for it!"
This was a testament to their resilience and wisdom, and it motivated me to live up to their high expectations. The overarching lesson from these experiences is that no matter what life throws our way, we must do all we can as leaders to keep moving forward.
I strive to be a better dad, friend, brother, husband, partner, and leader by being caring, loving, supportive, respectful, kind, and in service to others. This involves being selfless in both mindset and actions. Self less leadership, as I write about here, isn't about reaching a destination. It's about making daily choices that reflect this commitment.
Leadership should be thought of as an ongoing journey, something we continue to develop and hone over time. I don't think of myself as a leader. I think of myself as a student of leadership. I'm always learning, growing, and striving to get better, continually seeking ways to do more for others. It's about the journey, not the destination, and I am so grateful for the many opportunities I've had to learn from others about how best to serve.
I'm genuinely excited for what each new day brings. I'm truly grateful for the opportunity to be enlightened daily. Devoting my life to serving others and to learning every day has profoundly shaped my journey and continues to do so. Indeed, I can't wait to see what lessons tomorrow will bring.
But what about you?
I challenge you to reflect on your leadership journey and the impact you're making. Embrace continuous learning and strive to be a better version of yourself every day. Remember, leadership is about the journey, not the destination. Make choices today that will create a lasting, positive legacy for future generations.
As a good friend and incredibly successful corporate CEO once advised me, don't get caught up in your press clippings. Remember that leadership is an ongoing and endless pursuit, process, and journey.