Connection, Growth, and Something New

Tribes need leadership.  Sometimes one person leads, sometimes more.  People want connection and growth and something new.

I am a big fan of Seth Godin and I am a big fan of short to the point books.  So his book Tribes was right up my ally.  To the point but with a big impact.  Godin uses the line above to talk about leadership and how there are “tribes” or groups of people that need leadership.

There is a need for leadership in our families.  As we have discussed before we are all in a leadership role as parents.  Our family needs leadership!  I believe that our families need a leader more than they need us to be their friend or even their parent.  Because a great leader has the ability to be both of these.  As we focus on being better leaders we become better versions of ourselves and better parents.

To become better leaders sometimes we lead and sometimes we need to lead together.  This can be with your spouse or someone else who is part of or close with the family.  I have been blessed with an amazing wife where I have the chance to lead with her and she is always there to keep me in line.  Find that person in your life where you can share some of the responsibility of your family leadership.  That may be a close friend, grandparent, or even one of your children can help you in that role as you prepare them.

I love the three things he points out that all people need.  These three things are things we need to seek our for ourselves and as leaders of our family, we need to look to provide these to those we lead.

Connection – Relationships provide that connection that all people seek.  Take the time to build that connection with each person you lead.  Leadership will only allow us to lead as far as the relationship will take us.

Growth – We all have a fire within us to become who we should be.  Sometimes we have to help fan the fire of those we lead but that spark is there.  I think of growth as another word, potential.  Leaders help others get to not only where they want to be but where they should be on their path to potential.

Something New – When we  are growing there is always something new.  The next step in the evolution of our talents.  As we focus on deep connections and growth potential with those we lead there will always be something new to work toward.

The world needs you and your leadership.  Leadership does not need to be standing in front of thousands of people.  The world needs your leadership in your home.  No matter the role you have.  If you are a parent, raise your children to have an impact on this world.  Grandparents, you have the amazing role of helping your children become better parents and your grandchildren find that connection and growth.  If you are a brother, sister, son, or daughter you have a role in your own family to build those relationships as well.  That’s the best thing about family leadership.  No matter what chapter you are at in life you always have a role.  Go out and lead your family.