I’ve had a lot of coaches, teammates, and mentors in my life.
Some lit a fire in me.
Some tore me down.
And a few, just a few, changed my life forever.
Looking back, I realize the leaders who made the deepest impact weren’t the loudest,
the toughest, or the flashiest.
They were the ones who led by example. They listened.
They showed up when it mattered most.
They were the leaders I needed, especially during the toughest moments.
And over time, I learned something important.
If I didn’t always have the leader I wanted, I could become that leader for someone else.
Whether you’re leading a team, a family, or simply trying to lead yourself better,
here’s how to become the leader you once wished you had.
10 Steps to Be the Leader You Wish You Had
1. Lead Yourself First
You can’t guide others if you’re not clear on your own direction. Focus on values, discipline, and self-awareness.
2. Practice What You Preach
Be the one who follows through. Integrity starts with consistency.
3. Listen More Than You Speak
The best leaders ask questions and make people feel heard.
4. Stay Calm in Chaos
When things get messy, people look to you. Be the steady hand that helps them rise.
5. Make People Feel Seen
Recognize effort. Acknowledge growth. People perform better when they know they matter.
6. Own Your Mistakes Publicly
Accountability isn’t weakness. It’s leadership in action.
7. Stand Up for What’s Right
Even when it’s unpopular. Especially when no one else is willing to.
8. Multiply Others, Not Just Results
Great leaders create more leaders. Invest in others and help them grow.
9. Show Up Consistently
Reliability builds trust. Be someone others can count on no matter what.
10. Never Stop Growing
Stay curious. Keep learning. The moment you stop evolving, you stop leading.
The WYE Challenge
Think of one area of your life where you’ve been feeling impatient—
your health, career, relationships, or personal growth.
Now ask yourself: what’s one small, consistent action you can take daily to
stay committed—even if you don’t see instant results?
Take that step this week.
The Next Step Toolkit
Book Recommendation: The Obstacle Is the Way by Ryan Holiday
This book teaches the value of patience, endurance, and turning life’s delays
into stepping stones toward success.
Patience doesn’t mean doing nothing.
It means doing the right things consistently
and trusting that the results will come when they’re supposed to.
Keep climbing. Keep trusting. You’re right on time.
Best,
Mark
What’s one area of your life where practicing more patience could lead to better
long-term results?
Comment below and let me know—I’d love to hear your story.
Let’s keep the conversation going!