78: Stop Trying to Find Leaders, and Focus on Creating Them

One of the biggest misconceptions when it comes to building a successful business is the idea of finding leaders and superstars to be part of a team. We get frustrated when our team doesn’t have the same level of commitment that we do, and we often go out and try to find the best leaders. Well, the truth is, you can build your business without having a person just like you. You don’t need to magically find leaders. You can help to create them. In this episode, I'm going to share with you how to shift your focus from personal development to leadership development. I will also leave you with some action plans on how to increase your leadership level and how to grow your team. I suggest that you stop spending all your time trying to find leaders, and instead keep focusing on your existing team. Your people have all the skills, excitement and character. All you need to do is to challenge them in a way that leads to their growth. Stop blaming and start leading them so they can reach their full potential. John Maxwell has this idea called “The Leadership Lid”. It basically means that the level of your team depends on YOU. You attract what you are. Let’s say you have a leadership level of 5. In that case, you will most attract people on that level or below that level. You are the common denominator in the development of your team. Of course, as leaders, we don’t want that to happen. So here is my question for you: What do you need to start doing today? Here are some action plans that will help you increase your leadership level: 1. Make an honest assessment of where you are in your leadership The best way to do this is by looking at your team. Your team is a great reflection of who you are as a leader. Ask yourself, are you guiding them every step of the way? Are you challenging them and giving them that confidence? 2. Start seeing the greatness of each and every one in your team The reality is, people show up based on how you see them. You need to start looking at your people in terms of who can they become, not who they are. See their potential, their talents, then start to lead, inspire and empower them to reach their full potential. My challenge to you: Start the process of increasing your leadership level and ability. Focus on leadership development. Focus on impact over income, and trying to make a difference in the lives of others. I tell you, there is no greater joy than seeing your team growing and their lives being changed because of you.