What Leader or Leaders Are You Thankful For?

With Thanksgiving coming up I thought it would be fun to talk about leaders that each of us are grateful for. These could be leaders that you worked for, were coached by, served with, or have read/watched and were influenced by.

I want to start with a leader I am grateful for and then hope each of you will contribute a post about leaders that have affected you. I hope we can learn from these great leaders.

I was blessed and thankful to have a leader that taught me caring was more important anything else; results would come if leaders cared. He taught me that it was important to treat others how they want to be treated, not how you think they want to be treated. I always felt special and important around this particular leader. He cared enough to provide me honest specific feedback on my performance, was always interested in what my goals were, and would support me in achieving whatever it was that I aspired to do. Because of him I understand that being a leader is more than simply being a good manager. That people will follow you if they trust you. And they will trust you, if you care about them and nurture relationships with them.

I am grateful for this leader because I see him and his example every time I lead, whether at work, home or church. I am grateful for good people like him. Now it’s your turn, please post a comment about a leader you are grateful for below.

Inspirational Leadership Video Story  05/29/2009

True Inspirational Leadership Story on Video of a Father and Son  09/11/2009

What are the most important things in life? Leadership Lessons - Video 09/18/2009

Inspiring others is the leaders calling. Great Video. 10/13/2009

Mike Rogers

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Comments

[Brenda Keefer]

My 12th grade Business English teacher. She was a strong leader and instilled in all her students a sense of responsibility. She made us think. She'd provide us situations then lead us through them by making us come up with the solution. I believe I owe much of what I am today to Carolyn Goodman, Barboursville High School, Barboursville, WV

[Mike Rogers]

Very nice Brenda. Teachers are great examples of leaders. Thanks!

- Mike

[Phil Wrzesinski]

My High School Swim Coach, Pete Pultz, taught me that, "Can't Never Did Nothing".

My 4th/5th grade teacher, John Laxson, showed me how to use encouragement to get the most out of people.

My boss at YMCA Storer Camps, David Van Nuys, taught me that having a good heart and always meaning well overcomes a lot of other shortcomings.

My grandfather, Phil Conley, taught me to always "Plan For Success".

Those are the leaders that have influenced me the most.

[Mike Rogers]

Hi Phil,

Thanks so much for the examples. They are great and have given me needed inspiration for the day. I love, and I am so grateful for leaders like these. You are blessed to have had such great people in your life.

- Mike