“What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us.”
- Ralph Waldo Emerson

In my last post, I asserted to truly lead, one must accept the ultimate odyssey and challenge of becoming REAL. This requires that we get in touch with that which is real within ourselves.

The Spirit of a Leader grows from this source, which I will refer to as “animating genius.”

I believe each of us has animating genius. It is that which is divine within us, which carries all the seeds of our potential. It is pure and boundless, and connected to something bigger than ourselves. Because of this connection, animating genius is endlessly creative and innovative. It sees the best in people and situations and brings it out. It also sees possibilities that are hidden behind what others perceive as limitations, and is inspired by them. As a result, it is inspiring to others.

Our animating genius knows no fear and as a result takes things (including itself) lightly. It is tirelessly courageous, yet playful. It is also honest and speaks the truth plainly and directly without passing judgment.

Animating genius lives in the heart. It loves, appreciates, and uplifts. It feels a union with others, and is interested in the greatest good. It operates in the present and fully experiences and enjoys each moment.

I define real leaders as those whose animating genius longs to create something for the greatest good, which is ultimately accomplished with, for and through others. It has a keen ability to look around, see possibilities and utilize resources in a way that brings something into existence that benefits others, whether it is a family, a community, a non-profit organization, a corporation, or the world at large.

To accomplish this, leaders have the distinct charge of working with others in a way that brings out their best – that allows them to find the animating genius within themselves and apply it in service of accomplishing a common goal.

Stay tuned for my next post, The Leader’s Shadow.

Unleash the Extraordinary!

Diane Bolden