Good question: What makes a great leader?

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I recently finished Tribes by Seth Godin.

This book is about encouraging you and I to be leaders. It’s done with humor and irreverence. While reading it I felt hopeful that we the masses can make a difference.

I see a need for fresh leadership, particularly around social justice, as that is something that has been near and dear to my heart most of my life.

Here are a few snippets of what I loved about his book:

  • To be a leader you need to be a heretic. This means a person holding an opinion at odds with what is generally accepted. I do that often, much to the chagrin of my partner!

  • Anyone can lead.

  • Leaders initiate change.

  • Leaders create spaces for people to connect with each other, not just with the leader.

  • Everyone engaged in social justice is a link in the chain. Followers are as important as leaders.

  • We need leaders. Women leaders, intersectionality leaders, mothers in decision-making roles. Grandmothers are fabulous too!

  • Know when to follow

  • Know you will make mistakes. Everyone does. Lead anyways.

  • Lead with your heart, your soul, your creativity, and your desire to be of service.

  • “Leaders give people stories they can tell themselves, stories about the future and change.” -Seth Godin

  • “The status quo is persistent and resistant. It exists because everyone wants to believe that what they’ve got is probably better than the risk and fear that comes with change.” -Seth Godin

  • “The secret of leadership is simple; do what you believe in. Paint a picture of the future. Go there. People will follow.”- Seth Godin

  • Ask yourself: “What kind of world would you like to lead yourself and others into?”

  • Start small. Trust that you matter. Don’t worry about how many people follow.

  • Believe in possibility.

The status quo will only stay what it is if we do. Resist doing nothing. Persist in nonconforming not norming.  Embrace the idea that you are the change you want to see in the world. Lead where you are called to. We need you.

If I’ve piqued your interest, I encourage you to read the book and share your thoughts about leadership in the comments.