
I’m Not Looking for Perfect Leaders
I was taken aback when I realized that not everyone aspires to be a leader. It became clear to
me that not everyone wants to direct others or take on the responsibilities that come with
leading a project.
I’m always on the lookout for potential leaders—individuals who are eager to learn, open to
coaching, competent, trustworthy, and capable of building strong relationships with others.
Let’s be honest: perfection is rare. Perfection is not even a realistic goal. Instead, true leaders
embrace the journey of growth; they are willing to try, adapt, and learn continuously. They
stumble, they falter, and yes, they sometimes fall. But good leaders are those who learn to pivot,
stay flexible, and set their egos aside. This mindset allows them to find the best solutions for
their organizations.
Effective leaders are lifelong students of leadership, constantly striving for self-awareness and
improvement. And the ability to combat complacency after achieving success is a true test of
character. Strong leaders seek daily wins, refusing to coast on yesterday’s accomplishments.
Leadership demands energy – a fire that burns deep inside. What fuels your leadership? While
perfectionism may drive you, it’s not a sustainable source of energy. As Vince Lombardi said:
“Perfection is not attainable, but if we chase perfection, we can catch excellence.” As leaders,
our efforts make a difference.
Thank you for your commitment to leading within your organization!
Jeff