Leadership 101: Attitude

Over the years there have been some great movie quotes that have inspired me as I sit back and watch. Each one of my favorite movies have a memorable quote that gave me inspiration the moment I heard it, and still to this day, when I am watching one of these greats. A few years ago there was a movie based on the true story of T.C. Williams High School football team and their struggle for racial integration. The beauty of the story is that the team goes onto be successful and the underlying story of racism is completed because of leadership. Leadership is reflected in the movie from the coaching staff, but also from two leaders on the team- Julius Campbell & Gerry Bertier. These teammates go head to head all throughout the movie and it is a stunning scene that brings me to the point today, when they call each other out. Julius looks at Gerry and says, "attitude reflects leadership, captain." BAM! Right there is the honing point of this blog. For those in any type of leadership, it is our attitude that is reflective of our leadership. People will watch and see how we react or how we respond. This past week, I had to check myself as I displayed an attitude that was not reflective of my leadership. I walked away from a situation frustrated, but determined to make sure that I didn't let my attitude dictate my response. When it comes to leadership, people will follow you if they see an attitude that is worth following. As a leader of a small group, family unit, team at work, or any other cadre it is important to keep our attitude in check and be on our game all the time. YES-always. It is a principle of leadership that is taught at every level of competition from when you are a kid to the teams you are on as an adult. There are hundreds of quotes on attitude, and I won't give you any here, but know this- your attitude is important as a leader. How you respond will always be watched from others if you lead. If your attitude sucks (or stinks for those who prefer that word) then you will be taking a long walk by yourself, and not leading. Attitude is a game changer in leadership, is it a game changer for you right now.