One thousand nine hundred and thirty-five… plus a few leap year days thrown in for good measure. 

That’s about how long I have been on this planet. And today, like many other birthdays, I am thinking less about this single milestone and more about the days in between. 

It is in those in-between days that real impact happens. Those are the days when we can build connection, not just in our personal lives but in our professional relationships as well. It is in these moments that leaders, teams, and organizations either deepen trust or let it erode.  

Developing a strong ability to foster meaningful connections is essential for driving organizational success, fostering high-performing teams, and sustaining a culture of trust and engagement. Consider how effectively you are building trust and connection in your leadership.  

As leaders, our influence is not measured by the title we hold or the celebrations we receive. It is in the consistent, everyday actions that shape our culture and our ability to bring people together despite differences. I take this responsibility seriously because in my work, I have seen how intentional leadership can bridge gaps that might otherwise divide us. 

If you are looking for ways to strengthen connection in your leadership, explore the Connection Quotient. Get insights and strategies to help you cultivate deeper relationships and a more engaged team. 

Three Leadership Lessons from a Lifetime 

Through the years, I have learned a few key lessons. I thought I might take a moment to share them: 

  • You may not get another birthday. This seems obvious, but in the pace of leadership, we sometimes forget to be fully present. Today is the day to show up, make the decision, and have the conversation that moves things forward. 
  • People ‘better’ than you or me may have had fewer birthdays. There is no guarantee of longevity. What matters is the impact we create with the time we have. 
  • Loss is a great teacher, but only if we are good students. Reflection is a powerful tool for leaders. Every setback, every missed opportunity, and every difficult moment holds a lesson if we are willing to learn. 

What Will You Do With Today? 

Perhaps the theme here is mortality. Like many of you, I often feel invincible. That feeling, however, is not fact. In my quiet moments, I wonder: Why do I have another day on this planet? More importantly, what am I going to do with it? 

My answer, as imperfect as it may be, is to keep moving forward. To lead with purpose, to contribute more than I take, and to leave my organization, my teams, and my relationships stronger than I found them. To honor those who came before me and to set a standard for those who will come after me. To be a student of both success and failure. To recognize that even the hardest lessons are gifts in their own way. 

A Small but Meaningful Step 

If you have read this far, I have a small challenge for you. 

Think of that person. The one who has made a difference. The one you have been meaning to reach out to. The one who may not realize the impact they have had on you. Call, text, or email them today. Not tomorrow. Today. 

I will do the same. 

And I have a feeling we will both be glad we did. 

Want to build stronger connections as a leader? The Connection Quotient offers practical insights and strategies to help you foster deeper relationships and create a more engaged, high-performing team. Get your CQ today, it only takes a few minutes.

The Business Case for Elevating Followership 

We often discuss leadership development in business, but how often do we invest in followership development? 

Organizations struggle when there are too many leaders— “too many cooks in the kitchen.”
They also struggle when there are only followers— “where is the vision?” 

Instead of labeling people as leaders or followers, we should recognize the critical value of followership as a skillset. Effective followership is being adaptable, accountable, and proactive, drives execution, innovation, and team cohesion. 

Building a Culture of Leadership and Followership 

For leaders: 

  • Create a vision and communicate it clearly. 
  • Build an environment where your team can perform at their best. 
  • Recognize when to step back and listen. 

For followers: 

  • Develop active listening skills beyond what is obvious. 
  • Clarify expectations and limitations without blame. 
  • Execute the leader’s vision while providing critical insight and support. 

Mastering followership is just as valuable as mastering leadership. And the most effective professionals learn to move between both roles seamlessly. 

Winning in business—and in life—requires work, adaptability, and a deep understanding of your role within a larger system. 

Partner dance provides a model of clarity and balance. Perhaps it’s time to (re)take a few dance classes and experience what true leadership and followership feel like in action. 

Strong teams and relationships rely on both leaders and followers who know how to connect. The Connection Quotient gives you a clear picture of your strengths and areas to improve. See where you stand.