The purpose of life, after all, is to love it, to taste experience to the utmost, to reach out eagerly and without fear, for newer and richer experience. Eleanor Roosevelt.

The other day, someone asked me, “What is leadership all about, what’s the secret to it,” they wondered?

I have been writing and thinking and talking about leadership for a long time. I’m not alone. Writers, consultants and coaches, of all stripes, have been writing and speaking in-person and online, podcasting, selling books, addressing the subject as if it were some kind of arcane, mysterious secret.

Truth be known, though, there is no secret.

Whether we are talking about leading others or yourself, leadership comes from within.

Each and every day, leaders screw up their courage, go out the door and deliver their service or product to the world. They take action, continually analyzing what went well or not so well.

They reflect upon what happened and then, learning from the experience, make the necessary corrections, do what they instinctively know they need to do, all the while constantly reaching out to help their audience meet their aspirations or goals.

It’s as simple –  and complicated as that.

Their goals and aspirations are rock solid. They stay tightly focused. They don’t allow themselves to get distracted. They know why they are getting up every morning. That knowledge is the fuel that feeds the flame and keeps hope alive.

They keep on learning, they are always hopeful and they never give up.

Sure they make mistakes, stumble occasionally and at times are scared to death, but they go out and do it anyway, come hell or high water: Heart and mind totally engaged.

If you’ve been holding back, secretly harbouring a dream, give yourself permission to live it. Now, while you can.

Take the first step. Vow, today, that enough is enough.

Get going. Nothing builds self confidence and fosters self esteem like personal accomplishment.

Decide to be real. To be you. Really.

Do what you love. Go as far as you can. When you get there, you’ll know what to do next.

Stay safe. Stay strong. Stay connected.

I hope to see you again soon.

Want to rethink your direction?  Need someone to share your thoughts with? Read my approach to coaching. FOR A COMPLIMENTARY CONSULTATION text/call me 416.450.8867 or email drew@drewsimmie.com. Follow me on Twitter and LinkedIn.