Feature-Leadership and Destiny

By Timothy A. Edward

I wonder what your opinion would be, but as we look around at all that is happening in the world, we can safely say that 2026 will turn out to be an important year in the history of planet Earth.

In this year, which is unfolding slowly, leaders and leadership will play a vital role. The good news, however, is that all of us have an element of leadership inbuilt within us. So, we as leaders - irrespective of the sphere in which we operate - will exert our influence on this world.

Guarding the Heart

As leaders, from time to time, we need to evaluate our heart condition. We need to guard our hearts, because out of them flows every other aspect of leadership. This heart check is also known as self-awareness. The first step in effective leadership is leading ourselves. And for this, we need to know ourselves.

As leaders, what is the hidden condition of our hearts? Do we have a compassionate heart, a sacrificial heart, a hopeful heart? Are we strong, selfless, down-to-earth, practical, and full of empathy?

Hidden Hero

Whether we acknowledge it or not, these are some of the qualities we carry within ourselves. We have these built-in qualities - but they may exist at varying levels of maturity. If we are to become effective leaders, then we must work on developing these good leadership qualities.

Waves of Change

We will not be able to control the way the waves of change roll over us this year. But two things are certain: we can either learn to ride those waves of change, or we can simply hope that someday they will take us where we desire to be.

The Power of Moments

Our lives are designed by moments. We are born in a particular moment and depart from this world at another predetermined moment. In between, life is made of countless small and unique moments. Some bring joy, others bring sadness. Some make us think, while others inspire us to attempt new and great things.

As leaders, we are called to recognize those moments of change and opportunity, and to guide those who depend on us into those moments - so that together we can celebrate them. Leadership is about envisioning the desired future and influencing others to follow and step into that future.

The One Defining Moment

This year, we need to focus on connecting with that one defining moment. We are never too young or too old to step into the destiny for which we were created. If we keep working on our leadership skills, competencies, and attitudes, then at the right time we will walk into that one moment that propels us into our destiny. Sometimes, this will require us to shift, realign, and embrace change.

Looking Ahead

Let us look forward with joyous expectation to the rest of 2026 and the potential it holds for our lives, businesses, and families. Let us enjoy what we have, while moving forward with our set goals, vision, and mission.

Leadership is not about waiting for the world to change - it is about becoming the change. May we rise as leaders who guard our hearts, embrace the waves of change, and seize the defining moments that shape our destiny. The world is waiting, and the time is now.