Page 62 - The EDGE Winter 2025
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In the journey of being a great leader, the most
impactful figures understand the essence of creating Ref lections on Leadership
trust and collaboration within their teams. Rather November 25, 2024
than dwelling on what individuals cannot do, great "Great leaders hire outstanding people, train them well,
leaders illuminate the potential that lies within inspire them and then get out of their way." Frank Sonnenberg
each person. They recognize that every individual This quote is a powerful reminder of the qualities
possesses unique strengths and abilities that can be that elevate a leader from merely managing to lead to
nurtured and developed, leading to a more engaged, being great. A leader’s path to success does not solely
innovative team. rest on the abilities of a leader but on the people they
"Great leaders illuminate the potential that surround themselves with. Great leaders understand
lies within each person." that the cornerstone of an effective organization is its
-Brian Mee talent. By hiring individuals who possess the necessary
skills and demonstrate passion and potential, leaders
When leaders shift their focus from limitations to lay a solid foundation for growth and success
possibilities, they create an environment where team Great leaders also recognize that the strength of their
members feel valued and empowered. This positive organization lies in the people they bring on board.
atmosphere fosters open communication, promotes a Hiring outstanding individuals is not just about their
sense of belonging, and encourages sharing ideas. As technical skills but their potential to contribute,
trust builds, collaboration flourishes. Teams begin to innovate, and grow. Once the right talent has been
work not just alongside one another but in unison, recruited, practical training becomes crucial. It’s an
drawing on each person’s unique talents to tackle investment in their future, equipping them with the
challenges and achieve collective goals. tools and knowledge they need to excel and take
By prioritizing development over constraints, leaders ownership of their roles.
invest in their people, equipping them with the skills Inspiration is the heartbeat of leadership. Great
and confidence necessary to reach greatness. This leaders ignite passion and creativity by motivating
approach boosts individual morale and propels the their teams and fostering an environment where
entire organization forward. When team members team members feel valued and engaged. But perhaps
feel supported and encouraged, they are more likely the most profound aspect of this quote is the call
to take risks, unleash their creativity, and embrace to “get out of their way.” Great leaders understand
challenges as opportunities for growth. that micromanagement stifles creativity and breeds
Ultimately, inspirational leaders lay the groundwork resentment. Instead, they create space for their teams
for a thriving organizational culture by embodying to flourish, allowing individuals the freedom to make
a mindset that seeks to uplift rather than limit. They decisions and take initiative.
remind us that great leadership is not about wielding Ultimately, this approach reflects a profound belief in
authority; it’s about empowering others to shine, collective capability. When leaders trust their teams
fostering a collective spirit of success, and building and step back, they cultivate an atmosphere where
a legacy that embraces the boundless possibilities of innovation thrives and individuals are empowered
growth. to reach their full potential. Through such nurturing,
-Brian L. Mee, SFO, RSBA, M.Ed. greatness is not only achieved; it is shared.
-Brian L. Mee, SFO, RSBA, M.Ed.
"He will surely be missed. Enjoyed my time
working with Brian throughout the years."
-Toby Palma, Frontline Education
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62 THE EDGE WINTER 2025
