My wife snapped this pic as I was going through the very first copy of my new book.
I was going through page by page, making sure it really did print the way I wanted. I was (and maybe still am) a little shocked to see my words published and in print. And honestly, I got lost in it and ignored things going on around me.
My dog, Cooper, could not have cared less about my book. He lives for three things: rides in the pickup, belly rubs, and tennis balls. And he will always remind me that the simplest joys and the strongest connections often come from the unwavering presence and reliability we show to those we care about.
Cooper exemplifies what it means to be fully present. His eyes, filled with curiosity, loyalty, and maybe a bit of persistence, remind me that leadership is not just about guiding others but also about forming genuine connections. It’s about being there, consistently and dependably, for those who look up to you.
In the world of leadership, there’s a quality that’s like gold—it’s called reliability. It might sound like a big word, but it’s really about something simple yet incredibly important: keeping your promises and being someone others can count on.
Why Reliability Is Important
Imagine if you had a friend who always kept their word. They never said they would do something and then forgot or didn’t follow through. Wouldn’t you feel happy and safe knowing you could rely on them? That’s exactly why reliability matters in leadership too. When leaders are reliable, it helps everyone feel secure and trust each other more.
Building Trust and Respect
When you’re reliable, you earn something really special from others—trust. It’s like building a strong bridge between you and your friends or team members. They know they can depend on you, and that makes them respect you even more. Respect is about showing others you care enough to do what you say you will, and that’s a big deal in being a good leader.
Helping Your Team Succeed
As a leader, being reliable isn’t just about you—it’s about helping your team do their best too. Imagine leading a team where everyone feels supported because they know you’ll always be there for them. That kind of reliability helps everyone work together better, solve problems, and achieve their goals as a team.
How to Be Reliable
Being reliable means being consistent. It’s about doing what you promise, being on time, and staying true to your word. It’s also about being there to listen and support others when they need you.
Being reliable isn’t just a good habit—it’s a superpower in leadership. It shows others they can trust you, respect you, and work with you to make great things happen. Being reliable will always make you a leader others look up to.
We impact people around us. We make a difference in their lives.
Let’s do it with intention.
Let’s be people they can count on.