One of my greatest mentors is John C. Maxwell; he is an internationally recognized leadership expert, speaker, and author.  In his book The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership, he says, “Leadership is influence — nothing more, nothing less.”

By that definition, if you have the capacity to have an effect on someone, positive or negative, you are a leader. Whether it is in your home, your church, your business, or your community, you are influencing the people around you.

Those of us who view ourselves as leaders, either by title or talent, may be excited by this fact. On the other hand, if you have never seen yourself in this way, your first reaction could be one of uneasiness. However, I have good news! Wherever you find yourself on this spectrum, your leadership level can be developed, and your influence can grow.

If you are a leader, by position or grace, you can strengthen your God-given leadership abilities and enhance your communication skills. This intentional growth will benefit you tremendously: from accomplishing your goals to strengthening important relationships, from growing and developing personally to increasing your influence at your job or in your community.  As you grow, it will not only be of value in your life, but it will positively impact the lives of others.