My oldest daughter is 15 and in her Freshman year of high school. The other day we were driving and talking about a group she’s involved with at school. She said that they were waiting to see who the leader was going to be. The group had voted on it but they hadn’t gotten the results back yet.

Ahhh. . .insert teachable moment. I’m always looking for those and this one was just too massive not to walk right through it.

I told her to tell me who the leader was. She said she didn’t know yet. (Like Dad, I’ve already told you this)

3,2,1. . .

Honey, who influences the group? When this person talks everyone listens. They clearly stand out as the one person that people will follow. Come on. . who do the girls respond to? Who is that b/c THAT’S who the leader is. It doesn’t matter what “the vote” comes in at or who has the title of “Leader”. The leader is the one with the influence. Period.

How about your team? Who has the influence? Do they have the official title of Leader? It really doesn’t matter. If they have the influence they have the ability to turn the ship. You need to figure out how to get them involved in what you’re trying to accomplish. Spend a little extra time with them. Let them weigh in on some decisions.

Sometimes if someone didn’t get the title, their leadership ability can be overlooked. That’s a big mistake. BIG. He who has the influence is the leader. Period.