It’s very easy to imagine being a leader on an average day when you get to go out and meet people, maybe even talk to a large audience, hear their applause, see their inspired faces, and feel the satisfaction warming up your heart. But, what if you are stuck at home?
These days, as the Covid-19 pandemic is raging in the world, people are asking this question a lot in my classes. The underlying factor could be that we are still associating leadership with followers and the amount of influence.
Think of the value of human life. Would saving one person hold value for you? Or until it isn’t about saving a thousand or a million lives, you wouldn’t bother to do it? If a single person holds value for you, then why not strive to change a single life rather than create a name for ourselves in the world? Do what is in your grasp before attempting to reach for something more.
“The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.“
– Lao Tzu
When the pandemic is raging outside, and you are stuck at home or with limited connectivity, you can still practice leadership in daily life. Look at the people around you. Be it a parent, a child, a sibling, a neighbor, a friend, or anyone, all of these people are going through different life challenges. Especially in the current situation, they all need happiness and inspiration.
This is where you come in. If you want to create a difference, then become an everyday leader.
Check out more thoughts on everyday leadership.
In 2007, a research on friendship observed that good relations between best friends and close friends are significant predictors of happiness. In 2008, another study determined that family social support has a substantial, positive association with a person’s concurrent happiness. Often, when we focus on the larger scope of the world, we forget about people who are close to us.
Consider these findings; your friends and family’s happiness is directly linked to your behavior. In our efforts to reach the people who are beyond our capability, we shouldn’t lose touch with the requirements of those who need us most. These gestures won’t require a significant effort on your part. And in the end, you’ll end up getting the benefit from it as well by becoming happier, more satisfied, and more self-confident.
The examples of everyday leadership can range from a single smile to supporting your loved ones in their challenges. If one small gesture of kindness can create a significant difference in people’s lives, then why not try it out. If you can make even one person happy, you are making this world a better place.
Ever asked yourself why you can’t be a leader? Here’s the answer.
References
Demir, M., Özdemir, M., & Weitekamp, L. A. (2007). Looking to happy tomorrows with friends: Best and close friendships as they predict happiness. Journal of Happiness Studies, 8(2), 243-271.
North, R. J., Holahan, C. J., Moos, R. H., & Cronkite, R. C. (2008). Family support, family income, and happiness: a 10-year perspective. Journal of Family Psychology, 22(3), 475.