I extend a wish that you become a more capable leader, a person of trusted influence in the coming season. I believe that true leaders make our world more interesting, humane, and beautiful.  I see leadership possibility in nearly everybody; I hope that you stand by your convictions and share the unique vision of life that you have cultivated.

Should everyone be a leader?  I think that leadership is an art of interpersonal relations, one that some people are only vaguely aware. As we mature, gain more experience in our careers and community, we have greater opportunity to shape our world.  Some people are not ready to choose this consciously.  Our journey of transformation is personal; the curriculum arrives on a different schedule for all.

If you are still with me, ready to grow as a leader in 2011, I applaud your choice.  You will grow as a leader by understanding your values and choosing to act in accord with what is important.   Have you cultivated a vision of what you are working on? Has this vision been crystallized into a personal mission? Leaders are certain of what they stand for, what they are working on, and they share this mental clarity with others.  When the inner conviction is solid and brings delight to your soul, then you have the capacity to lift others.  Leadership happens when this inner vision is transmitted to others, and people act.  Leadership begins with infectious ideas.

I extend to you the hope that in the coming 12 months your grasp of your potential contribution grows. Continue to express vividly your gift to the world. May you be called by others a “great leader” because of who you are, and what you stand for.