Leaders, like plants, need an environment where they will grow. They need a place where it’s possible to develop. To flourish.

The crucial difference between a leader and a plant is agency. Plants can’t transplant themselves to the controlled environment of a terrarium.

You can.

“I’m not a leader,” you protest.

I say you are. You should be. Your influence, insight, and strength are things people around you need to experience.

So move to a healthy environment.

Start with books.
What are the topics you need to learn about this year?
Who should you be learning from?

Here is my list.

• Books that will make me a better educator.
• Books that will give me a better mind for business.
• Books that will stimulate my thinking about God and culture.
• Books that will stretch my thinking about missiology.
• Books that will improve story-telling skills.

I am also seeking to learn from more diverse teachers. My first three reads in 2021 are a Japanese artist, a Nigerian/American Journalist, and a novelist/creativity coach.

When you walk out of the whirlpool, plant yourself some place nourishing.
You are alive with a will.
You make that choice.