In our last blog, So you want to be a leader? we looked at the importance of leading from the front, back, and side. As I reflected on this some more, I thought about how important it is for leaders to also understand how they have been helped from the front, back and side leadership.

Recently, a story came to mind from a long time ago. We had just finished a high school basketball game and I was sitting on the bleachers, still in my uniform hunched over a bit, tired after playing, but also a little down.

A reporter from a local newspaper came and sat beside me. He asked how I was feeling, and told him that while I was certainly happy we won but also disappointed that I had only scored 3 points.

It was at that point he said, "did you know you also had 17 rebounds?" I didn't.

With that my whole perspective changed. My head popped up, I sat up, and no longer felt as disappointed. Maybe I did better than I realized? Maybe I needed to look at my performance in another way? It was a gift, not only in that moment, but also for a lifetime. For that reporter demonstrated the impact of coaching from the side. And he wasn't even my coach! And certainly didn't have any responsiblity to encourage or develop me.

I wanted to share this story with you this holiday season as to me it is story of hope. Even though you may not have the official title of leader, and even though people around you may not acknowledge or even understand the contributions you are making, please don't stop. Stay on purpose. Have hope that the good you are doing is making an impact! Probably more than you may ever realize.

"Leadership is not about you. It is about what you do for others..."

Hoping you and yours will have a fabulous holiday season.