Lead with Diligence: It’s No About Me?!?!

Imagine this: You’ve worked hard, climbed the ladder, and achieved what many would call success. But despite the accolades, you feel a nagging emptiness—like something’s missing. You’ve been living for yourself, chasing goals that seemed important, yet now you wonder, Is this all there is? I’ve been there, and if you have too, here’s what I’m learning: the path to a truly abundant life—one that’s rich in purpose and fulfillment—might not be about chasing more for myself. It might be about giving more to others.

As someone who wants to be the kind of person people want to follow, I see that leadership isn’t just about hitting targets or earning respect—it’s about serving others. The diligent leader doesn’t focus solely on their own success; they’re driven by a purpose that lifts up those around them. They inspire trust and loyalty not by what they achieve, but by how they make others feel. I want to be that kind of leader, and I believe you can be too. It starts with a simple shift: from living for ourselves to living with purpose for others.

Redefining Abundance: It’s Not About Me

There’s a quote that’s been on my mind lately: “Going all in for the abundant life means shifting from living for yourself to living with purpose for others.” At first, I thought abundance meant more—more recognition, more wins, more for me. But I’m realizing it’s not about piling up accomplishments; it’s about finding meaning in serving others. That’s what makes life full—not a crowded trophy case, but a heart invested in something bigger.

This idea isn’t new. In Philippians 2:3-4, it says: “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.” This is a wake-up call. It’s not just about being nice—it’s a way to lead. When I put others first, I’m not just helping them; I’m building the kind of character people trust and follow. The leaders I look up to don’t grab the spotlight—they shine it on others. That’s who I want to be.

Small Steps to Lead with Purpose

So, how do I get there? I don’t have to change everything overnight. I find that small, intentional actions can start to shift my focus outward. Here’s what I’m trying—and maybe you can try these too:

•   Listen like it matters. Next time I’m talking with someone, I’m putting my phone down and really hearing them—no interrupting, just listening. It shows they’re worth my time.
•   Step up without being asked. If I see a teammate struggling, I’m jumping in to help, whether it’s a work task or just a tough day. It’s about showing I’ve got their back.
•   Give my time freely. I’m looking for ways to volunteer—maybe mentoring a colleague or helping out in my community. Even an hour can matter.
•   Say thanks more often. I’m making it a point to tell people I appreciate them. A quick “You’re doing great” can build them up—and it feels good to say it.

These steps aren’t flashy, but they’re doable. And every time I choose one, I feel a little more like the leader I want to be—someone who serves, not just succeeds.

Why This Makes Us Someone Worth Following

Here’s what I’ve discovered: serving others doesn’t mean ignoring my own goals. It’s about balance—lifting others up while we grow too. When we lead this way, something amazing happens: people start to follow, not because we’re the loudest or the most accomplished, but because they feel valued. That’s the secret, I think. People don’t follow titles—they follow someone who cares.

I look at leaders like that—people who quietly serve and end up with a crowd behind them—and I see a ripple effect. When I help someone, they’re more likely to help others. It builds a team, a community, a movement. That’s the kind of leader I’m aiming to be: one who starts something bigger by putting others first.

My Challenge to You (and Me)

I’m not there yet, but I’m working on it every today. My challenge to myself—and to you, if you’re with me—is to take one small step right now. Maybe it’s listening to someone who needs it, offering a hand, or just saying “thank you” to someone who deserves it. It’s not about being perfect; it’s about being purposeful.

I want to be the kind of person people want to follow—not because I demand it, but because I earn it through service. And I think that’s how we lead with diligence: one small, purposeful act at a time. So, let’s do it—today. Who’s with me?