Ever wonder why some leaders appear to have it all together while others just seem lost? I think it comes down to being self-aware, and destroying the ‘evidence’ that we so often look to as truth.

Sometimes, as a leader, you can feel like you are running a marathon uphill.  You doubt your vision, question your goals and wonder if you have what it takes to lead.  There are times when no matter how hard you try to move forward, you just feel as though you are standing still.  It is during these times when you must be willing to face your greatest adversary… you.

If you want to lead others well you must first destroy the ‘evidence’ that is holding you back from being who you were meant to be.

When I think about leadership I think of two simple words, ‘inner circle.’  Those who we surround ourselves with will often determine the path we take as leaders.

Throughout history we have learned lessons from stories that touch our hearts. Rarely, however, do the heroes in our stories succeed without guidance and help from other characters. Many times, the only reason they can fulfill their destiny is because others have helped them along the way.

As leaders, the fictional stories of heroes can resonate with us and cause us to reflect on how we can be better.  The story of Harry Potter is no exception, and in my opinion it demonstrates the perfect example of how our ‘inner circle’ can help form us into the leaders we become.

There is just something special about writing on paper with a pencil that transcends the test of time.  The beauty that comes from the simplicity of it is amazing.

I have found that a pencil not only represents genius, but it also truly paints a picture of the complexity of leadership. Some of us are leaders, some of us are followers, and some of us are a bit of both. When it comes down to it, regardless of where we stand,  we can learn plenty about who we are from a pencil and a piece of paper.