Some Climb the Ladder. Others Build One for You.
In today's world, too many leaders are obsessed with climbing over others to rise. But the real leaders? The unforgettable ones? They lift others as they rise.
We call them Lifter Leaders — the kind of people who make you feel stronger just by being around them. They don't lead with ego. They lead with impact. And their secret? They add value to people every single day.
Story 1: Nelson Mandela in Prison
Nelson Mandela spent 27 years behind bars. But even in prison, he remained a lifter.
Instead of harboring hatred, he treated prison guards with dignity and kindness. Many of those guards—once instructed to break his spirit—eventually became his allies.
Mandela's leadership wasn't loud. It was consistent. Quiet. Powerful. And it lifted everyone around him — even those who were meant to keep him down.
Story 2: Mentorship in Motion
A struggling high school student sat in silence, ready to give up. His grades were slipping. Confidence? Gone.
But one day, a teacher looked him in the eye and said, "You're not failing. You're learning faster than others."
That sentence? It rewrote the student's story. He later became a published author. All because someone chose to see his potential instead of his problems.
That's what lifter leaders do. They call out the gold in others—even when it's buried.
Leadership Takeaway: Adding Value is Simpler Than You Think
Being a lifter isn't about money, fame, or position. It's about presence. Words. Intentional actions.
Here's how you can start adding value today:
- Speak life — a kind word can shift someone's entire day.
- Listen fully — sometimes the best gift is your attention.
- Celebrate others — even small wins deserve loud cheers.
- Share opportunities — pass on what you've learned or gained.
When you lift people, they never forget it. And more often than not, they'll go on to lift others too.
So here's your challenge: Be the reason someone rises today.
Because in a world full of climbers… We need more lifters.