The word “leadership” has many definitions.  For me, leadership has two primary parts—how we think and what we do.  First and foremost, as a leader, it’s our responsibility to exercise thought leadership.  Earl Nightingale made the statement, “We become what we think about.” For leaders, this means having a positive attitude, believing in what’s possible, and anticipating the future before it happens.  

When problems occur, it’s only natural for your employees to look at you and wonder how you’ll react.  If you are fearful and believe the proverbial sky is falling, don’t be surprised when your people follow suit.  On the other hand, if there are problems and you define a goal that solves the problem, have a game plan, and move quickly into executing, your people will approach problems the same way.  In times of trials, “Adversity doesn’t build character.  It reveals it.”  

Tom's Takeaway: Leadership begins in the mind.  Think positively and your actions will follow.