I went to the meeting of a business networking group yesterday and was reminded again of the essential need for any organization to take a stand. As each member went around the table introducing themselves and their business, one particular person stood out for their over the top enthusiasm.

His booming voice and constant cheering in an otherwise subdued setting was at first a little unnerving. As the meeting progressed however, it became apparent that this was who he actually was. He was enthusiastic, supportive, and genuinely seemed to want his colleagues to succeed. In other words, he was being authentic. He stood for something.

Being in competition is a contact sport. It means utilizing your strengths to carve out a niche where you and your organization are better at what you do than everyone else. It means having principles, taking a stand, and not allowing other’s opinions of you to knock you off the road you travel.

Standing for something is leadership. Leaders are never universally loved, not even by those who follow.

Posted by: Steve Banis