Learning Leadership: The Five Fundamentals of Becoming an Exemplary Leader

Let us begin our journey into the heart of leadership with a gentle truth: leadership is not a rare gift bestowed upon a lucky few, but a seed sown in each of us at birth. Imagine a sunlit field where people of all backgrounds and ages gather, each holding a tiny seed. Some seeds have already sprouted, while others wait patiently for the right conditions. Leadership is like these seeds—potential waiting to be nurtured, not a mysterious trait reserved for the chosen.

For years, we have been told stories that limit our vision of who can lead. The Talent Myth whispers that only the naturally gifted can guide others. The Position Myth insists that authority comes from a title or office. The Strengths Myth tells us to ignore our weaknesses, while the Self-Reliance Myth glamorizes the lone hero. And the It-Comes-Naturally Myth makes us believe that leadership should be effortless for the best. These stories, though comforting in their simplicity, are not true. They are like old coats we keep wearing, even when they no longer fit.

But what if you learned that, in a global study using the Leadership Practices Inventory, over 99.999% of people displayed leadership behaviors? That means nearly everyone you know—including yourself—has led in some way. Leadership is not a gene or a birthright. It is a set of actions, a way of being, and a choice to make a difference. As you reflect on your own experiences, you may remember times when you guided a friend, organized a family event, or inspired a colleague. These moments count. They are proof that you are already on the path.

Consider the story of a young woman who believed she was just a 'coal miner's daughter, mother, and grandmother.' For decades, she doubted her ability to lead. Only after reflecting on her life and learning about leadership as a skill did she realize she had been leading all along. Her story is not unique. It is echoed by countless others who, once freed from the grip of these myths, step forward to lead in their own authentic ways.

Debunking these myths is the first act of self-liberation. When you realize that leadership is not about title, talent, or going it alone, you open yourself to growth. You see leadership as a journey, not a destination, and you begin to notice the seeds of possibility in yourself and others.

As you breathe in this new perspective, let it settle gently in your heart. You are not an imposter. You are not waiting for permission. You are already on the journey of leadership, and the myths that held you back can be left behind.

With this awakening, we prepare to explore the powerful impact that leadership can have—not just on ourselves, but on everyone around us. Let us take our next step, discovering how leadership transforms lives and organizations.