Life throws us countless chances to lead. Sometimes we’re out in front; other times, we’re the silent force behind a success. Each moment, each challenge, teaches us. Who are we? How do we shape our world?
Here are ten life lessons for those who lead—or aspire to. They touch every slice of life, from quiet moments alone to the triumphs we share with a team. They offer advice on riding the highs and handling the lows.
The first six of these lessons have been circulating online. I’m not sure where they originated but appreciate the simple wisdom. I decided to add some of my own thoughts about the six, and then add four more that came to mind.
1. When you are alone, mind your thoughts
When we’re alone, our thoughts can be loud. If we don’t steer our thoughts positively, we might drift into negativity or worse. Our goal should be to cultivate a mindset that promotes growth and strength. If a gardener carefully tends to his plants, ensuring they grow healthy and strong, shouldn’t we take equal care of our thoughts?
Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on the earth.
Colossians 3:2
2. When you are with friends, mind your tongue
Conversations with friends are almost like playing an instrument. Each note must be played with care and consideration. The wrong word can be like a sour note, jarring, disruptive, out of place. Always aim to harmonize with the group, adding value and warmth to the conversation.
With friends, make your words as harmonious as a well
played melody.
3. When you are angry, mind your temper
Anger can ignite like a spark in dry grass. The damage can spread quickly and destructively. Controlling your temper is like using a firebreak to stop the spread of wildfire. It protects you and others from the destructive forces of unchecked emotions. Most of us can look back at the times we lost it, and feel a twinge of regret for the resulting damage.
“Speak when you are angry and you will make the best speech you will ever regret.”
Ambrose Bierce
“The greatest remedy for anger is delay.”
Seneca
4. When you are in a group, mind your behavior
In a group, your behavior is like a mirror reflecting your character to others. Act as the person you aspire to be seen as. This consistency is what builds trust and respect within the group. Your behavior influences others in powerful ways.
In groups, let your behavior mirror your deepest values.
5. When you are in trouble, mind your emotion
During turbulent times, managing your emotions can be a challenge. You’re in a storm, and it’s rough. Staying calm can help keep the boat steady, even when the waves are high. Emotional steadiness in crises can inspire and stabilize those around you.
Trouble is a storm; calmness steers the boat.
6. When God starts blessing you, mind your ego
When success and blessings come your way, think of them like rain nourishing the earth. Just as rain benefits the humblest plants, let your success nourish your humility. This way, your growth remains grounded and fruitful, benefiting not just yourself but those around you. The egotistical way to manage blessings is to focus on self. This leads to pride and arrogance.
Let blessings nourish your humility, not your pride.
7. When you are successful, mind your gratitude
Success often brings joy and satisfaction. Regularly acknowledge those who have supported you and the fortunate turns that have come your way. This not only keeps you grounded but also enhances your relationships and sets a positive example for others to follow. It also allows more blessings to flow your way.
“Be thankful for what you have; you’ll end up having more. If you concentrate on what you don’t have, you will never, ever have enough.”
Oprah Winfrey
8. When you are learning, mind your openness
The process of learning is continuous. It touches every aspect of our lives. Embrace new ideas and different perspectives with an open mind and heart. This expands your knowledge but also enhances your ability to connect with others.
9. When you face failure, mind your resilience
Facing failure is an inevitable part of life and leadership. Minding your resilience in these moments is like using a compass to help you find your way back. Learn from each setback and use these lessons to build a stronger, more adaptable approach. Resilience isn’t about avoiding failure; it’s about learning how to recover and move forward.
“You may encounter many defeats, but you must not be defeated. In fact, it may be necessary to encounter the defeats, so you can know who you are, what you can rise from, how you can still come out of it.”
Maya Angelou
10. When you are the leader, mind your influence
As a leader, every action and decision has ripple effects. Minding your influence is like steering a ship in calm waters—it’s essential to maintain a steady course that others can follow confidently. Embrace the responsibility that comes with your role, understanding that your words, decisions, and even your demeanor set the tone for the entire team. Effective leadership is about more than just guiding—it’s about inspiring others to achieve their best.
As a leader, steer your influence carefully; your team’s course depends on it.
Every day, I learn more about resilience, gratitude, and how to handle negative emotions or anger. Each challenge, every stumble, and every victory adds another layer to my understanding. This isn’t just about sharing knowledge—it’s about growing alongside you.
Remember, we’re all continuously growing. We’re all students in the grand classroom of life, and the lessons never end.
“Ninety-nine percent of the failures come from people who have the habit of making excuses.”
George Washington Carver
“He that is good for making excuses is seldom good for anything else.”
Benjamin Franklin
“The master has failed more times than the beginner has even tried.”
Stephen McCranie
“If you really want to do something, you’ll find a way. If you don’t, you’ll find an excuse.”
Jim Rohn
Image Credit: Mohammad Nohassi
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