If you are independent and not part of an organization, are you still a leader? How are you perceived if you are not THE leader but a leader?

A savvy but overused quote from George Patton's letter to his son, “You are always on parade.” As a leader, regardless of the circumstance of your leadership, you are being observed and measured.

Aleister Crowley wrote, “There is no law beyond Do what thou wilt.” Occultists understand that means you are free to do your highest good and your true purpose. With that free will, you and everyone else live with the consequences of your actions.

Do the same criteria apply to you no matter how many people you manage? You know what I am going to say 😊 You’ll cast an ever-widening circle regardless of what you do. Consider the management of a team at the community’s favorite coffee destination—a small group with short precise interactions with dozens of people every morning. Often the same but always some new faces. What are some things for you to consider?

Be Authentic.

Express who you are and your leadership style. Human nature is that we often want to imitate those who inspire us. You are not them, even if they are a sibling or close relative like a parent. Your experiences bring forward something that no one else can, even a twin. If your organization doesn’t allow for authenticity… it raises questions about the style of those above.

Be Authoritative.

In this context, it means you are the thought leader. You lead from a place of vision and knowledge. Authoritative people make great mentors. There can be a tendency to micromanage even to do good. Set the standard, communicate, and let people learn from you. There can be the temptation to become a charismatic leader in this circumstance. Be real, lead but manage who you are. The gods do not look kindly on autocrats.

Be Transactional (but only when you MUST).

Transactional depends on a hierarchy and much structure. There are rules, rewards, and punishments. This sounds very old-school and harsh. Consider exceptional or crises. If you are the captain of a ship headed over some falls, is it time to say, “Let’s take a vote?” When push comes to shove, be ready to do what’s necessary. But no more.

Knowing how and when to use this leadership tool is very powerful. Use it sparingly, and it will have a positive impact in setting your team to visible success.

What are your lessons?

Onward.