This week, I’m reflecting on one of my all-time favorite leadership quotes, and it’s from the brilliant Craig Groeschel:
“People would rather follow a leader that is real than one that is always right.”
This quote cuts right to the essence of effective leadership. It’s not about projecting an image of perfection or having all the answers. Instead, it’s about authenticity, vulnerability, and genuine connection.
What does it truly mean to be a “real” leader?
It means:
▪️ Admitting when you don’t know: No one expects you to be omniscient. A real leader isn’t afraid to say, “I don’t have the answer to that right now, but let’s find it together.” 🙏
▪️ Owning your mistakes: We all mess up. A leader who can openly acknowledge an error, take responsibility, and learn from it builds immense trust and respect. It shows humanity, not weakness.
▪️ Showing your true self: Drop the facade. Share your struggles, your passions, and even your quirky sense of humor. People connect with people, not robots. When you’re authentic, others feel safe to be authentic too.
▪️ Empathy over ego: A real leader understands and connects with their team’s experiences, challenges, and aspirations. They lead with compassion, not just directives.
Why does this matter in leadership?
Think about it: Would you rather follow someone who seems unapproachable and infallible, or someone who is relatable, understands your challenges, and inspires you through their genuine character? Authenticity fosters psychological safety, encourages innovation, and builds a much stronger, more resilient team. When leaders are real, they inspire loyalty and a shared purpose, far more than someone who prioritizes being “right” above all else. 💖
For further reading on how to cultivate influential and authentic leadership, I highly recommend:
“Lead Like It Matters: 7 Leadership Principles for a Church That Lasts” by Craig Groeschel. 📖
Why? While the title references “church,” this book is packed with universal leadership wisdom that applies to any organization. Groeschel shares practical insights on what it takes to build and sustain a thriving, impactful team. He emphasizes the importance of vision, innovation, and a willingness to be vulnerable – all components of being a “real” leader that people are eager to follow.
And a bonus! You can also gain powerful, practical insights every month by tuning into Craig Groeschel Leadership Podcast 🎧 – it’s a fantastic free resource for any leader wanting to grow!