The next generation of "you's"

Fellow leaders,
 
Mara here! Last week, my dad (Frederick) shared with you that we have a weekly leadership meeting. Today, I’m writing to tell you why the leadership meeting works for me, a developing young leader.
 
I haven’t always seen myself as a “leader,” mostly because the common characteristic when thinking of “leader” is heroism. While working with SLC, I have begun to develop my own definition of “leader.” Through many meetings and conversations with my dad, consistent actions came to mind: communication, support, intention, growth, vision, insight, safety… 
 
What it comes down to for me, is the recognition that leaderships isn’t just about being “the boss,” but recognizing you are the cultivator for the next generation of “you’s.”
 
As a 23-year-old developing leader, these meetings work for me because I feel valued, I feel heard, and I feel the growth and exploration taking over. It can be hard being from a younger generation, constantly feeling like an imposter while simultaneously feeling as though I should be further ahead and more knowledgeable than I am. The ideologies of the leadership I grew up understanding are changing, opening up more space for those who don’t see themselves as the “hero.” 
 
How can we make leadership more accessible?
 
Today, I want you think about how you are growing the next generation of “you’s.”
 
Regardless of your position, what are you doing every day to grow someone else? 
 
If you don’t have anything that comes to mind, reflect on that. 
 
If we don’t take the time and energy to be a gardener to others, how will others ever bloom? 
 
All the best,
 
Mara