Leadership is an action, not a position. This powerful truth is exemplified by those who rise through diverse roles. Take for instance the example of someone who previously held a position as a former Division 1 college quarterback, who then transitions from leading under duress on a field to eventually joining the ranks of corporate leadership. From this new position, they rise from managing to early stage executive leadership. The assumption one might make of this journey is that there were transferable experiences (moments of execution) and principles that individual learned and leaned on as they continued their progression. The point? True leadership transcends titles and formal roles; it is defined by how you act, influence, and inspire others regardless of your position.

As a quarterback, you lead by example, making quick decisions under pressure, maintaining calm and discipline as you execute in moments of chaos, and uniting a team towards a common goal.

In management, you refine these skills into guiding and empowering your team, creating an environment of trust and accountability. When you reach the executive level, your leadership becomes a guiding light that shapes organizational culture and drives strategic vision.

An executive leader acts as a beacon for their organization by providing guidance, hope, and direction during challenging times. They do this by:

• Setting a Vision: Establishing and communicating a clear vision helps the team navigate uncertainty.
• Illuminating a Path: Creating a strategic path that adds value and guides the organization forward, even amid challenges.
• Embodying Desired Behavior: Modeling humility, sincerity, and thoughtful communication, while anticipating needs and learning from competitors.
• Inspiring Others: Empowering and motivating the team through soft skills, clarity, and hope for a better future.

Here are a few examples:

Jensen Huang, co-founder and CEO of NVIDIA, exemplifies outstanding executive leadership through his visionary approach and transformative impact on the tech industry. Under his guidance, NVIDIA has evolved from a graphics chip maker into a powerhouse in artificial intelligence and high-performance computing. Huang’s strategic foresight led to pioneering advancements in GPU technology, which have become integral to AI, machine learning, and gaming. His commitment to innovation, coupled with a strong emphasis on cultivating a dynamic company culture, showcases his ability to inspire and lead a team toward groundbreaking achievements, solidifying his reputation as a remarkable leader in the tech world.

Yes, this one is certainly controversial (for understandable reasons), but Elon Musk’s visionary leadership has been pivotal in driving the mission to accelerate the world’s transition to sustainable energy. His ability to set a clear vision, be tirelessly dedicated, and inspire his team through innovation has led to groundbreaking innovations in electric vehicles and renewable energy, despite the chaos he occasionally causes.

Tim Cook has successfully guided Apple through significant transitions, including the shift to new product lines and the expansion into services. His leadership has maintained Apple’s reputation for innovation and quality, while also emphasizing ethical practices and sustainability.

Sheryl Sandberg’s leadership at Meta has been instrumental in shaping the company’s culture and strategic direction. Her focus on empowering employees and promoting diversity and inclusion has had a lasting impact on the organization.

Satya Nadella transformed Microsoft’s culture by fostering a growth mindset and emphasizing empathy and collaboration. His leadership has driven the company’s resurgence, particularly in cloud computing and AI, making Microsoft one of the most valuable companies in the world.

Mary Barra has led General Motors through significant changes, including the push towards electric and autonomous vehicles. Her commitment to innovation and sustainability has positioned GM as a leader in the automotive industry’s future.

During her tenure as CEO, Indra Nooyi focused on long-term sustainability and health-conscious products. Her strategic vision and emphasis on corporate responsibility helped PepsiCo grow while addressing global health and environmental challenges.

Rosalind Brewer, during her time as the CEO of Walgreens Boots Alliance, she’d be best defined as a trailblazer in the corporate world. Her leadership is characterized by expertise in leading large complex global operations while driving innovation in technology, developing world class leadership teams and creating performance driven cultures, and a strong commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. Brewer focused on transforming the company’s strategic direction, emphasizing innovation in healthcare services and expanding access to essential health resources. Her ability to inspire and lead through challenging times has made her a beacon of hope and progress in the industry.

These leaders exemplify how executive leaders can act as beacons by setting a clear vision, inspiring their teams, and driving their organizations towards strategic goals. They embody the qualities of effective leadership, whether integrity, innovation, or resilience, which are crucial for navigating challenges offering clarity and direction, source of strength and inspiration in times of crisis, and achieving success.

To be a better leader, focus on the actions that define your influence

Lead with integrity, communicate clearly, and inspire by demonstrating commitment and resilience. Your leadership is measured by how you uplift others, drive progress, and embody the values that guide your team. Remember, it’s not about the title you hold but the impact you make through your actions and the legacy you build. Leadership is a continuous journey of growth and influence, driven by the principles you uphold and the example you set.

Navigating skepticism from those who doubt your elevation due to their perception of your role requires both grace and resilience. Show that your leadership extends beyond traditional expectations by consistently delivering exceptional results, promoting a collaborative culture, and addressing challenges with strategic vision. Overcome doubts by proving that your skills, insights, and dedication meet the organization’s needs at the highest level. Your actions will validate your place and dispel any misconceptions, illustrating that leadership is earned through merit and influence, not merely a reflection of past roles.

The Jewelry Box of Leadership Qualities:

• Visionary Thinking: Ability to set a clear and compelling vision for the future.
• Strategic Decision-Making: Skill in making informed decisions that drive the organization forward.
• Inspirational Communication: Talent for articulating ideas and motivating teams.
• Emotional Intelligence: Capacity to understand and manage one’s own emotions and those of others.
• Adaptability: Flexibility in navigating changes and overcoming challenges.
• Integrity: Commitment to honesty, ethics, and transparency.
• Empathy: Understanding and addressing the needs and concerns of team members.
• Decisiveness: Confidence in making tough decisions quickly and effectively.
• Resilience: Ability to recover from setbacks and maintain focus on goals.
• Delegation Skills: Competence in assigning tasks and trusting team members to execute.
• Collaborative Mindset: Willingness to work with others and foster a cooperative environment.
• Innovative Thinking: Openness to new ideas and solutions that drive progress.
• Accountability: Taking responsibility for outcomes and leading by example.

Call to Action

Reflect on your own leadership journey. Identify areas for growth and take specific actions to develop your leadership skills. Seek out mentors, embrace continuous learning, and strive to inspire and uplift those around you. Remember, leadership is not about the title you hold but the impact you make through your actions and the legacy you build. Be well!