Table of Contents
Why Self-Leadership is the Foundation of True Influence
True leadership isn’t about collecting wins. It’s about creating impact…for yourself and for others. The world doesn’t need more titles or accolades. It needs more women who lift as they climb.
You don’t have to mentor everyone. But you can become the leader you once needed. And in doing so, you create a ripple effect that outlives your job title, your business card or your current role.
As leaders, it’s our responsibility, and our privilege, to set the next generation up for success. And something powerful happens when we do…we grow too.
While we empower others to rise, we stretch ourselves in ways we couldn’t have predicted. We refine our voice. We deepen our perspective. We sharpen our influence. Because true leadership doesn’t end with personal success. It multiplies success by pouring into others.
Mentorship: The Most Human Form of Leadership Development
Here’s a question worth considering:
What’s the greatest challenge any leader faces?
Leading yourself.
If you can’t lead yourself, with integrity, consistency and clarity, why would anyone else want to follow you? The foundation of all leadership is self-leadership. When you know how to guide yourself through uncertainty, growth and change, you’re better equipped to guide others.
The need for strong leaders isn’t going away. In fact, in the next few years, 84% of organizations anticipate a leadership shortfall. Meanwhile, 83% say it’s important to develop leaders at all levels.
See the disconnect? That number should be 100%.
One of the most effective, and human ways to develop leaders is through mentorship. And while it may seem you don’t have time, the experience is invaluable.
How Women Leaders Can Create a Ripple Effect of Growth
I’ve mentored dozens of young women just beginning their careers. Some of them later stood beside me at my wedding. That’s how deep those connections became.
So if you’re hesitating, because of time, energy or doubt…ask yourself this:
What difference did a mentor make in your life?
And if you never had one…maybe now’s the time to become the mentor you once needed.
Because the mark of a great leader isn’t how many people she manages…it’s how many leaders she helps rise along the way.
How has a woman supported you this year?
And even more importantly…who will you support next?