They were gathered at a leadership strategy offsite to face a very difficult challenge. They wanted to define, clarify and pursue their purpose as leaders.

Leadership matters when it happens in real time on a daily basis. It becomes relevant when you see it, feel it and experience it.

In a recent coaching session we were discussing her leadership and discovered an area in which she wanted to improve. As we talked, she displayed an engaging openness to listen and to learn.

An executive with many years of leadership experience asked me a question that I simply cannot get off of my mind.

It was one event. Everyone experienced the same thing…..or did they? We were honored to attend a wonderful evening in Edinburgh, Scotland.

We were hot, tired and on a bus. One of those double decker buses where you hop on and hop off to see the sights. I was in no mood for a tour or sight seeing.

I'll admit that it is my pet peeve. But the difference was so obvious. We arrived at a B & B after an intense week of work and long day of travel and were ready for a little down time.

Thank you HTG leaders, for leading above the line and consistently making a difference!

She paused by our retaining wall as I was slowly passing by. That's when I saw it. Something long (about 5 feet), round and black came off of the wall toward my wife.

We all would like to think that we are the leader who puts others first and who cares about her team. However, the truth of our character comes out in times of crises…

This was her dilemma, what would this strong leader do with the knowledge that she had acquired? She could choose to ignore it, reject it, or use it.

Once again I am reminded that leadership is a verb. It begins with a sincere care for others. It is most powerful when driven by inspiration and not obligation.

Instead of making this moment about him he chose to make it about them. This is what he told them: "When I look in the mirror I will see each of you. I am merely a reflection of you. You are my mirror."

If you happened to sign in to our first Webinar you heard me talking about Leading Above The Line. I was talking to a hidden camera on my computer screen.

This high charging couple with enormous leadership roles and responsibilities knew how to slow down from the demands and false urgencies of their professional lives to find purpose.

It is just as important to feel heard, as it is to "feel right". In other words, when we truly listen we say to that person "you are valuable enough for me to hear you".

Everything he had become accustomed to was about to change. He felt excited,motivated and ready for the challenge. She did not.

An old man once told me that it was ok to look back at the past...just don't stare.

Being comfortable is not the end goal of an authentic and healthy relationship. Struggling together, learning more about each other, and working to make one another better are the key ingredients to success. 

Then she asked me to think about my leadership not from my head but from my heart. This changed my perspective.