We Are the Ones: Leadership Beyond Titles

Over the past ten days, many of my clients in the US and the international community have shared their disappointment and distress following recent political events, particularly the inauguration of Donald Trump, which fell on Martin Luther King Jr.'s birthday. The symbolism of this juxtaposition has weighed heavily on their hearts—and mine.

Reflecting on Dr. King's leadership reminds me of an essential truth: leadership is not about titles, positions, or years of experience. When Dr. King was chosen to lead the Montgomery Bus Boycott, it wasn't because he was the most seasoned or qualified. It was because, as a young pastor who was new to town, he had less to lose than established leaders. Yet his courage, conviction, and commitment to justice helped to catalyze a transformative movement.

Dr. King's story reminds us that each of us has the potential to lead. Whether it's leading our own lives with clarity and intention, guiding our families with love, or working toward change in our communities or organizations, leadership takes many forms.

In moments like these, when the world feels heavy and uncertain, we are all called to step up and lead—perhaps in ways we've never imagined. As the poet June Jordan so powerfully reminds us, “We are the ones we have been waiting for.”

We don't need to wait for someone else to create the change we seek. Leadership lives in each of us. How will you lead today?