By Chris Wahl

Call it centered presence, call it being, call it a certain je ne sais quoi. A leadership state of mind is one of the signs of a true leader. A true leader lives the calling. Even though it is hard to define or articulate, others can see it and feel it, and know when they are with it.

The distinction that is worth spending a bit of time on is this: you can be designated a leader by virtue of the position you hold; or you can embody a leadership mindset. Leadership by virtue of position is not as powerful as leadership by virtue of living and modeling a leadership state of mind. While the combination of the two is magical and worth working towards, the first without the second tends to be break down over time. The second without the first is the reason we see 'leaders' at many levels in organizations, for these are the people others trust, confide in, seek out, and want to work with.

If a leader embodies a leadership mindset, what does that look like? What is it that we recognize in a person that makes us say, "there's a true leader." It seems that true leaders are dedicated to something bigger than themselves and are able to inspire others to have faith in an invisible and unknowable future. Their actions are taken with integrity and thereby generate trust. They are what we call "emotionally intelligent" and able to interact with diverse people. They are generous with information, which empowers others to make sound decisions. Their way of being conveys optimism, energy, and groundedness, and their conversations focus on the future versus the past. People who work with them are curious about them, like being in their presence, and work to bring their best selves forward.

Reflection

In what ways do you embody a leadership state of mind? What level of faith do you have in yourself as a leader? How are you inspiring others to have faith? How are you generous with those working with you and for you? How are you welcoming to diverse personalities and ideas?