Personal Leadership

It has been said that the most powerful leadership tool you have is the life you live. Anthony Rogers said of personal leadership, “Self-leadership is communicating to yourself your worth and potential so clearly that you create your life in celebration of who you really are”. Personal leadership can always be seen if it is present – in your personal behaviour and interactions. In fact, it is often likened to the discovery and development of the authentic self.

The self must be held accountable as its own leader. Part of this stems from the realisation that you are unique and still have a lot to fulfil. However, it may require a leadership development programme to discover what these things are, and why it is important for you to learn about yourself as a leader. It will require a plan and a conscious effort.

Personal leadership may also require development and understanding of individual expression, and how to express yourself authentically. We need to realise how we see and express ourselves, and how others experience us. Part of self-expression is realising what potential you have, how you can realise it and taking charge of yourself through self-leadership in order to reach your goals and become that “authentic self” others can trust.

The quest for personal leadership can be likened to a journey of discovery. Discovery of your potential, purpose and position, both in your personal and professional life. You need not hold a traditional position of leadership to be a leader: it finds expression in your aspirations and contributions to the lives of others. It is more about inspiring people than leading them by the hand.

Personal leadership is more than an empty effort towards self-actualisation. It finds a far greater impact and energy in finding purpose to life’s goals and inspiring others to contribute towards a value system through personal integrity and sound character.