"A good objective of leadership is to help those who are doing poorly to do well and to help those who are doing well to do even better"

Leadership is all about lifting people up, no matter where they start. It’s not just about steering the ship, but making sure everyone on board is thriving. This approach isn’t just for the sake of the team, but for the whole organization. When leaders focus on boosting everyone’s performance, they create a culture of constant improvement.

Historically, this sentiment resonates with transformational leadership, a concept that picked up steam in the late 20th century. Leaders like Nelson Mandela exemplified this. Mandela didn’t just lead South Africa out of apartheid; he empowered individuals at every level to be part of the change. He knew that real progress comes when you uplift those who are struggling and also push those who are already excelling.

Let’s take a closer look at a practical example. Think about a classroom setting. There's always a mix of students—some struggling, some cruising. A great teacher doesn’t just focus on the top students. They give extra time to those who need it, helping them grasp difficult concepts. At the same time, they provide challenging materials to the advanced students, pushing them to new heights. Everyone benefits. The struggling students make progress, and the top students don’t get bored. The entire class moves forward together.

Now, how do you apply this wisdom in your own life or work? Start by really observing your team. Who's struggling? Who's excelling? Take the time to understand their individual needs. Then, tailor your support and challenges accordingly. It’s about being present and proactive. Don’t wait for someone to ask for help or more responsibility—step in and offer it.

Imagine you’re managing a project team. You’ve got Jamie, who’s new and still finding their feet, and Alex, who’s a seasoned pro. For Jamie, you might offer more frequent check-ins, providing guidance and encouragement. For Alex, you could assign a complex task that pushes their skills to the next level. This way, Jamie gains confidence and becomes more competent, while Alex stays engaged and continues to grow.

Here's a relatable scenario: Think about a soccer coach. A good coach doesn’t just focus on the star players scoring goals. They work with the defenders who might be struggling with their positioning, helping them shore up their weaknesses. At the same time, they challenge the star striker to develop their weaker foot or improve their strategic thinking. The whole team gets better—defense solidifies, and the attack sharpens. They win more games as a result.

So, if you’re in a leadership position, remember that your role isn’t just about hitting targets and meeting deadlines. It’s about people. Lift those who are down, and push those who are up even higher. Celebrate small wins, provide constructive feedback, and always be on the lookout for ways to help your team grow. By doing so, you'll create an environment where everyone feels valued and motivated to do their best.

In essence, leadership is a balancing act. It's about knowing when to step in and lend a hand, and when to step back and let someone soar. Keep your eyes open, stay engaged, and remember—the success of a leader is measured by the success of their team.