Who Will You Be Today?
When preparing for your day or week, it is crucial to ask the right questions. Not just good questions, but the ones that determine whether you can navigate the many situations you will encounter.
For example, consider the question: “Who will you be today?”
At first glance, that question may seem simple, especially if you are thinking about your name or title. However, leaders must move beyond those identifiers. Instead, they should consider who they will be in character, impact, and as a decision maker.
After all, when others observe us, who they see directly influences whether they choose to follow. More importantly, it determines whether trust is built or broken.
What Will You Do Today?
In addition, another essential question is: “What will you do today?”
Time is a gift given at the start of each day. Because of that, you have 24 hours to be productive and to influence outcomes. Yet, many leaders unintentionally waste those hours.
For instance, they may attend meetings without clear outcomes, allow projects to fall behind schedule, or spend excessive time managing emails.
Therefore, leaders must be intentional. Specifically, they should focus on top priorities, strengthen key relationships, and plan for what needs to happen next. As a result, their time becomes an investment rather than an expense.
How Can You Use the Unexpected?
Equally important, ask yourself: “How can I use the unexpected to create opportunity?”
Typically, leaders hope for smooth, problem-free days. While that may feel ideal, it often limits growth and opportunity.
On the other hand, when leaders stay alert to unexpected events, they can recognize opportunities others might miss. In fact, trends are constantly emerging. Even if they are not preferred, they still present valuable openings.
Consequently, leaders must develop the ability to quickly identify, adapt, and respond to these moments. By doing so, they turn uncertainty into advantage.
Where Should You Disrupt?
Finally, consider the question: “In what way should I disrupt our systems, processes, and approach to work?”
Over time, every team or organization can become routine-driven and disengaged from the mission. Naturally, it feels easier to stick with what is familiar rather than challenge the status quo.
However, this is exactly where strong leadership matters most. Leaders must recognize this tendency and respond by challenging their teams in meaningful ways.
In other words, they should introduce ideas that stimulate thinking and encourage innovation. Without this kind of disruption, teams may treat important initiatives as just another task instead of an opportunity for growth.
Final Thought: The Choice Is Yours
Ultimately, these decisions are yours to make. Who will you be? What will you do? How will you use the unexpected? Where will you disrupt?
So, take ownership of your answers and lead with intention. Make this an awesome day.
