In the United States today there seems to be an adversity to taking risks.  Even in corporate America, complacency has become the norm.  Throughout the country, we see only a few pockets of those who are willing to step up and challenge the “status quo.”

What the heck has happened to the go for it attitude that was once prevalent? This is especially true in politics where so many self-serving people have made it their home…

Taking calculated risks is important for growth. Businesses need to do it in order for innovation to happen. It was Peter Drucker that said the basic function of business is marketing and innovation. Today, it seems many businesses have lost that lesson and so has people in general.

Taking risks also helps people to become more resilient. In times when it is needed, those that are resilient have that bounce back factor. Yes, taking risks can create loss. So what, it happens. You bounce back and move forward, learning from the experience. Winners win because they learned how to deal with defeat.

Leadership requires both taking risks, innovation and resilience. Those that lead need to understand this. Falling down is part of the process. Hesitation stops growth. Taking risks and innovation makes it happen.

A true leader leads from the front, not from the back. A person with a fancy title is not a leader. Position does not make a leader. Only actions dictate that.

So ask yourself, what am I doing to develop true leadership within me? Can I make it when the going gets tough? Am I being creative in what I do as a leader? Am I willing to step outside of what others say and make a decision when necessary, even though it may cost me?

Look forward and upward. Be a true leader….not an appointed one.

Bob Choat