Hello, my friend.

I have important news for you.

The title may have given it away or turned you away, but it’s something you need to hear.

Yes . . . You are!

Argue if you want, but the words must be said.

You. Are. The. Problem.

Go ahead. Get mad. But take a second to reread that.

In case you didn’t, here’s another chance. YOU. ARE. THE. PROBLEM.

Before accusing me of throwing stones, I know I am also the problem.

You heard me.

I. AM. THE. PROBLEM.

Leading is not what leaders dislike. When things are going great and everyone is firing on all cylinders, the world is a beautiful place. Children obey, rooms are clean, beds are made, balls aren’t bouncing in the living room, and the house is peaceful.

Leading people leads to all the heartburn, headaches, and hangovers for parents, managers, teachers, coaches, etc.

The results of leading aren’t entirely in your hands, but how you lead is.

Do you have family, friends, or colleagues willing to tell you where they believe you could improve? I’m not talking about people who are overjoyed with the opportunity of being critical of you. There’s no shortage of those folks. I’m talking about those who want to see you succeed and will help you get there.