A Powerful Reminder of What Truly Elevates Leaders and Teams

A reflective look at the lessons that shape authentic leadership, personal growth, and the way we treat the people around us.

This article explores the reminders we all need as leaders and humans—embracing imperfection, listening with empathy, seeking forgiveness, and valuing vulnerability. It challenges us to look deeper, lead with humility, and prioritize people over process. These lessons shape the leaders we become and the cultures we build.

Not long ago, I was reminded that as humans, we are endowed with frailties that make us all perfectly—well—imperfect. This imperfection is a magnificent gift, one that enables us to learn and grow continuously.

I was reminded that perception is a powerful tool—one that we can wield for good, lifting individuals or teams to astounding heights, or, if misused, bringing those same people crashing to the ground.

I was reminded that acknowledging and understanding perspective is pivotal. Too often we fail to listen, taking a situation and making it about me, instead of giving the person in front of us the space, attention, and empathy they need in that moment.

I was reminded that most people are genuine and good—trying to do the best they can in a world that is frequently unforgiving and unrelenting. They want the best for themselves and for those around them. We can easily scan the surface, but we often fail to dive deeper and explore the heart.

I was reminded that sometimes we must become very uncomfortable before we can truly be comfortable—before we can actually change. What is this discomfort? It is the honest evaluation of our character and the intent of our heart. Then, it becomes taking ownership and accountability for behaviors or actions that diminished others, created conflict, or moved us further away from completing our mission.

I was reminded of how empowering the act of seeking true forgiveness can be. When a person embraces what they have done—and any harm it may have caused—it swings wide the floodgates of humility, dissolving lingering tension and potential contempt. It allows the offended or hurt party to let their guard down, accept the offering, forgive, and begin a path of healing.

I was reminded that allowing others—as well as ourselves—to be vulnerable is what permits true mending and greater strength. When vulnerability has a safe place to dwell and thrive, we begin to see each other as humans rather than merely coworkers: not just somebody in finance, or the guy in HR, or the person who drops those annoying mailers on our desk twice a week.

I was reminded, as a leader, that being human should never be ignored. It must be factored into the daily people equation—even in moments of extreme frustration or disappointment. Ownership, accountability, and corrective measures may be necessary, but through all of that, we cannot lose sight of the things often overlooked in the hustle of running a meaningful, efficient operation.

Let’s do better. Let’s run organizations that are profitable financially—yes—but also profitable in how we treat people.

Take care of your people.

Love your people.