Clearing the Leadership Fog: Finding Your Purpose

One of the most common challenges I encounter is helping individuals discover their leadership purpose.  Not because they lack potential, but because they don’t see themselves as leaders.  Despite the abundance of self-assessment tools and resources, many still view themselves as followers rather than leaders.  They embody key leadership qualities yet hesitate to step into leadership.  Some believe leadership is reserved for those with a title or a particular personality type, while others shy away due to fears of pressure, scrutiny, or work environment politics.  But the truth is, leadership isn’t defined by a title-it’s about influence. 

Trust me when I say, all good leaders have been where you are at.  I often refer to this as Leadership Fog.  Being lost and not knowing how to remove yourself from this is one of the worst feelings in life.  What if I told you that leadership is nothing more than inspiring others to join in your vision?  Would that make it easier to grasp? What if I told you that many leaders never sought out leadership; they simply showed up, supported their team, and took responsibility when it mattered.  Their daily inspiration to improve and accomplish the mission is what made them a leader.  They learned the value of overcoming adversity and embraced the courage to strengthen their ability to inspire. 

Below are a few questions and the framework I often ask those lost within uncertainty.  I encourage you to grab a piece of paper and start journaling your emotions to each question.  Be honest with yourself, let your natural leader curiosity take over.    

1.     Recognize Where You Already Lead – Think about situations where you add value to the organization and the people around you.  What are you doing?  Who were you helping?  What emotions did you have?  What was the outcome?

2.     Assess the Person in the Mirror – Growth is not a goal; it’s a continuous journey that demands intentionality.  What are you naturally good at? What excites you? What are you doing to grow your leadership ability?  What are you doing to develop others?  When has your ego hindered your growth?  What needs to change in you?    

3.     Seek Feedback from Others – How well do you receive feedback?  How often do you seek feedback?  How can your attitude impact your ability to listen?  Do you have a mentor?  What would your mentor, peers, and colleagues say about your leadership?  Having the ability to listen can help you clarify your leadership path and provide valuable insights.

4.     Build Confidence in Small Ways – Have the courage to take on new challenges to see what resonates with you.  What new skills or knowledge do you need to develop? How do you step outside of your comfort zone?  What is one small leadership action you can take today? Leadership grows with practice, so engage and put your vision into action.

5.     Commit to Keep Evolving – Your leadership purpose will change as you grow.  What kind of leader do you want to be?  How do you measure success?  What would be your leader’s legacy?  Who in your organization can you learn from?  Stay open to new experiences and continue to refine your values and mission.  Embrace the three “L’s; Listen-Learn-Lead." 

How did that go?  Did it inspire a new vision?  If you are still doubting your leadership potential, I challenge you to take another look. I guarantee you just need your “leadership lid” loosened.  If you still have some self-doubt, then let’s talk more and start a journey together. I encourage you to send me a note at wes@battalion1consultants.com and let’s start lifting your fog.

Wes Hill

Fire Chief

Senior Consultant