LEADERSHIP AND INTELLIGENCE: PART ONE

Leadership at a Crossroads: A 2025 Reflection on Our Most Critical Skill

Some time ago, I shared my thoughts on leadership and intelligence as critical pillars for self-development. That piece was a reflection on a principle that was shared with me a decade ago—an idea so profound that it has shaped my perspective ever since. In the time that has passed, I’ve had some incredible conversations about the deep meaning of this, and others have shared their personal journeys with me. I can confidently say that each interaction has been unique and insightful, a testament to how our experiences, from our earliest days to this very moment, shape our view of the world.

This brings me to why I feel compelled to write this now. As we navigate the complexities of 2025, in a world that feels more fragmented and uncertain than ever, leadership is not just a critical discipline; it is, I believe, the most essential tool we have. Every news story, every viral image, every global summit is a real-time case study. As we watch individuals attempt to guide us through crises and challenges, from geopolitical tensions to the rapid advance of AI, we must observe with a discerning eye what is truly happening. There is a deep and growing concern in my heart for the future we are building, and it has become undeniable that authentic, service-oriented leadership is the only viable path forward.

I have had a personal aspiration to become a better leader for my entire life, equating it early on with service and personal development. For years, especially when I was younger, I was told that I wasn't the leader that fit the world’s template. And they were right (though back then, I took it as a personal affront). I didn’t fit into a prescribed model.

Neither do you. Your personal leadership style has been forged in the crucible of your unique experiences; it cannot be confined to a stereotype. You encounter leadership situations every day, regardless of whether your name sits in a hierarchy box next to a title. In these turbulent times, your leadership is more critical than ever.

Here are some elements for us all to consider:

Self-Leadership

In a world filled with digital noise and constant demands for our attention, the most fundamental form of leadership begins within. Every day, your example of self-leadership inspires and creates a model for those around you. The question I consistently ask myself is, “What kind of leadership example am I conveying today?” When I choose deep reading over mindless scrolling, how am I growing? When I choose a difficult workout over the comfort of the couch, how am I developing discipline?

Everything from our spirituality and family life to our health and education are arenas where we must lead ourselves first. This internal commitment prepares us for the external opportunities to lead that present themselves daily in a myriad of ways, providing an anchor of stability in a chaotic world.

Servant Leadership

History is filled with amazing books and leaders who exemplify what it means to serve. However, it can be hard for us to practice this when we drift into a “Fixed Mindset,” as Carol Dweck so brilliantly outlines in her book, Mindset. When faced with a challenging moment, ask yourself: “Is this a time to help or heal, or am I only internalizing this from a place of defense?” Often, both are happening, but our initial response is key. Starting with the question, “How can I help?”—whether directed at a person or a situation—can fundamentally shift the dynamic from one of conflict to one of collaboration. This is the antidote to the "us vs. them" mentality that plagues so much of our public discourse.

This is not an attempt to be a definitive primer on leadership. Rather, it is my sincere hope that we all begin to observe leadership more closely. Every conversation—at work, within our network, in our communities, and on the world stage—should be viewed with an eye toward authenticity. In times as challenging as these, our hearts have a remarkable ability to perceive what is real.

Look for my updated thoughts on intelligence soon. That concept, too, has morphed significantly from what I first intended.

Thank you and stay safe. -WW