Page 64 - The EDGE Winter 2025

Ref lections on Leadership "I got to know Brian a little through the ASBO
International annual conferences. My impression
of him coming in as a new ASBO member was
December 2, 2024
"Great leaders understand that the right attitude will set the someone who was kind and giving of his time to
right atmosphere, which enables the right response from make others feel welcome and appreciated. He was a
others." John C. Maxwell true professional in our industry and will be missed.
Great leadership is not just about authority; it’s May he rest in peace."
about transformation. A leader’s attitude, when it -Jason Helsen, Michigan ASBO
exemplifies positivity, resilience, and optimism,
has the power to change the very core of a team.
It’s not just a change in atmosphere; it’s a catalyst
for meaningful action and engagement, inspiring
everyone to be their best.

Leaders have the power to inspire trust and a sense
of belonging within their team. When individuals
feel valued and supported, they are more likely to
contribute ideas, take initiative, and confidently rise
to challenges. This atmosphere of encouragement
and acceptance enhances creativity, as team members Ref lections on Leadership
feel safe to express innovative thoughts without fear
of judgment or retribution. December 9, 2024
How a leader responds to adversity can also impact "Great leaders don't set out to be a leader... they set out to
their team. A calm, collected approach in the face make a difference. It's never about the role- always about
of challenges can provide stability, encouraging the goal."
individuals to match that energy and tackle obstacles Leadership is often mistaken for a title, a position, or
together. The mere essence of a positive environment a privilege reserved for a select few. However, great
can turn daunting tasks into shared missions, leadership transcends such superficial definitions. It
encouragement, resilience, and determination. emerges from a deep-seated desire to initiate positive
Ultimately, great leaders understand that they create change in the world and uplift those around us. Great
their team’s environment. Their attitude is not just leaders are fueled not by ambitions of authority, which
influential; it’s infectious; it can ignite passion are driven by a desire for control and recognition, but
and drive within their teams. They recognize that by a commitment to their vision, which is rooted in a
cultivating an atmosphere where others feel valued desire to make a difference and improve the lives of
and supported enables everyone to reach their fullest others. This commitment drives them, not the allure
potential, transforming visions into reality. In this of power or prestige.
dance of inspiration, the leader’s attitude becomes At the heart of this perspective lies the understanding
the heartbeat of a thriving organization, proving that great leadership is synonymous with selfless
that the right mindset is the foundation of successful service. Great leaders recognize that their primary
leadership. responsibility is not to command but to inspire and
-Brian L. Mee, SFO, RSBA, M.Ed. empower others. They actively seek to identify the
needs, challenges, and ambitions of the people they
serve, placing those needs at the forefront of their
initiatives. This selfless, servant-based approach
fosters an environment where teamwork thrives,

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