Leadership Two Words at a Time: Simple Truths for Leading Complicated People

Imagine standing quietly at the threshold of your own story—a gentle morning sun rising behind you, casting both light and shadow. This is where every true leader’s journey begins: not with a title or a team, but with a deep, honest look within. Leadership, at its very core, is an act of self-discovery. Before you can guide others, you must first know yourself—your values, your triggers, your dreams, and your fears.

Start with a gentle inventory. What are your 'sunshine' strengths—the gifts that light up a room, inspire a team, or solve a crisis? But pause, too, and notice the shadows those strengths may cast when overused. The persuasive speaker who forgets to listen. The diligent worker who struggles to delegate. Every light has its shadow, and wisdom lies in knowing both.

Now, take up the 'Five Flags' exercise. Picture five banners waving in the wind—each one emblazoned with a value you hold dear. Perhaps family, honesty, fairness, or resilience. These are not just words, but guiding stars that keep you from getting lost in the forest of others’ expectations. When you live by these flags, your actions and decisions become congruent, and authenticity radiates from you like warmth from the sun.

But leadership is not just about your story. It’s about recognizing the invisible privileges and hardships that shaped you. Maybe you had support others lacked, or perhaps adversity forged your resilience. Privilege, as the book gently teaches, is not something to hide from or feel guilty about—it is a tool to help others rise.

As you reflect, you’ll find that your own journey—your triumphs and regrets—creates empathy for those you lead. You’ll see yourself in their struggles and hopes, and they’ll sense your understanding. This is how trust begins: not with grand gestures, but with the quiet assurance that you are human, just like them.

In this opening chapter of our story, remember: the greatest gift you can offer as a leader is the real, imperfect, striving you. Take time to know yourself, honor your values, and embrace both your sunshine and shadows. This is the soil from which all great leadership grows.

With these roots firmly planted, let’s gently turn toward the next lesson: how your actions and principles become the model for those who follow you...