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Nearly two-thirds of American workers would change jobs or positions today if they could. This suggests a significant issue with leading well in many organizations. As a result, they could be facing either an HR crisis or a mass exodus of team members. So, what’s really going on here? And more specifically, why—according to a Gallup study—are 62% of workers between the ages of 30 and 44 disengaged?

It begs the question: is traditional leadership still working to lead effectively? In many organizations, the answer seems to be no. Honestly, that’s one of the many reasons I feel fortunate to be part of an organization deeply committed to growing both current and future leaders. The organization continues to invest heavily in leadership development at every level.

One of the most important things I’ve learned about truly great organizations and leaders is this: they have a genuine heart to serve, which helps them in leading well. Maybe that’s the secret to their success in the first place. It’s a principle that I believe more organizations—and more leaders—should seriously reflect on.

With that in mind, are you striving to become the kind of leader that others are truly inspired to follow? If you were to take a moment for honest self-reflection, where is your heart when it comes to serving others?

Chasing Carrots

I spent over a decade in a corporate role with a Fortune 50 company. During that time, I was hungry for growth and new opportunities. There were seasons when I prioritized my own advancement over the needs of those I was called to lead. I’m not proud of that—but it’s the truth. I chased the “dangling carrot,” chasing promotions and power. Often, I overlooked both the people around me and my own personal development. I failed to see that Power × Humility = True Influence, which is key to leading well.

Looking back, I realize I was young. I didn’t yet understand that sometimes our supervisors or mentors see things in us that we don’t. Sometimes staying in a current role—continuing to grow and stretch—is more beneficial than jumping to something we may not be fully ready for. Growth doesn’t always come through movement. Sometimes, it comes through staying rooted and becoming a well-grounded leader.

Fast forward to today: Although I coach and mentor others in the realms of leadership, communication, and self-awareness, I’m still very much focused on my own personal growth and development. I have to be! Just this past weekend, while studying, I read something that hit me square between the eyes. I recognized that I need to make a shift. I’m reminded constantly of how much growth still lies ahead for me. And I’m okay with that—because becoming a leader who leads well is a lifelong journey. As long as I’m improving day-by-day, I’m headed in the right direction. You can be too.

Insight from John C Maxwell

In The 21 Indispensable Qualities of a Leader, John Maxwell writes that if we truly want to be the kind of leader others want to follow, we must resolve the issue of servanthood in our hearts. We have to be committed not only to our own development, but to helping others grow too—even when it’s in the quiet, less glamorous corners of our current role.

This hasn’t always been easy for me. Life rarely goes the way we script it. But with time, I’ve learned that most things that feel like setbacks aren’t as significant as they seem. And often, they’re exactly the situations that shape us into leaders who can lead well despite challenges.

So, as Maxwell encourages, let’s:

• Start listening to others—especially those who see potential in us before we see it in ourselves.
• Stop seeking advancement for advancement’s sake—and start taking bold steps for the benefit of others.
• Stop insisting on our own way—and start leading with a heart of daily service.

Until next time, lead empowered and keep fighting for the highest possible good of others.

“I don’t know what your destiny will be, but one thing I do know: the only ones among you who will be really happy are those who have sought and found how to serve.” – Albert Schweitzer

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