With businesses facing slower foot traffic and economic uncertainties, I often find comfort in hope. The belief in persisting and putting in continuous effort, like many of you all do everyday. I hear from many business owners and persistence is what keeps us all going. Even in the time we want to stop. There is much power in persistence and you can teach your team the same if you so choose to.

As Winston Churchill said: "We shall not fail or falter; we shall not weaken or tire. Neither the sudden shock of battle, nor the long-drawn trials of vigilance and exertion will wear us down. Give us the tools, and we will finish the job." This quote emphasizes the determination and commitment to excellence in the face of challenges. 

I think about leadership impact very often. It’s my passion. I read and research leadership because we are all ever-evolving, as our team is as well. Being a leader isn't just about making decisions and giving orders; it's about being a teacher. Teaching as a leader means not just telling people what to do but helping them grow and thrive. Think of it as a puzzle and how their unique skills and perspectives fit together, forming a complete picture. Good leaders separate the work from the person, creating an environment where everyone can improve without feeling knocked down. Because who likes this!? Are you the boss who barks orders or the coach who helps your team score goals? Did you silently cringe when you read that question, “Oh no! Is this me?” The wonderful news is that you’re asking yourself the question. Leaders make the changes in themselves to become great, and it starts by looking inward. 

Demanding might get things “done,” but coaching builds a team that plays well together. As a former athlete, I love this! Imagine yourself as a coach and telling your team: "Yes, let's do this together!" instead of just expecting them to follow orders. Recently at a high school basketball game I was perplexed by the coach. While I understand coaches scream, yell and have a lot of passion for excellence and success, this coach left his team in tears. Through the game I thought, “that’s definitely not going to give you better performance.” And I was right, they lost and the players had their spirit broken. 

A great leader aka, coach involves the team, making every teammate feel important. Giving them hope and guidance to overcome. Saying "yes" becomes a team effort, like everyone playing on the same winning side. You have the ability to become a legacy leader, and who doesn't want to be remembered by their ability to bring people together and leave a story behind. There will be plenty of times you’ll say no. But don’t be so afraid of saying YES!

Do you think of someone particular when you read this? The way they influenced and possibly even impacted the way your life went? Say their name, and write down qualities or actions they took to make positive influence and change in your life. Take note. 

In business, even with all the operational tasks, and metrics, it’s not just about finishing the job; it's about how you helped your team grow. Be the leader who inspires and brings out the best in others. Your reputation is not just about what you did but how you made others feel. Being a leader is really like being a coach and a mentor and separating the work from the person, coaching instead of demanding, and creating a culture of saying "yes" together. Yes we can do this! 

Have you ever asked yourself what kind of teacher/coach/mentor you want to be? Let’s sets the stage for their success.