"اگر اعمال شما دیگران را تشویق کند که بیشتر رویاپردازی کنند، بیشتر بیاموزند، بیشتر عمل کنند و بیشتر شوند، شما یک رهبر هستید"

Being a leader isn't just about holding a title or position. It's about the impact you make on others. At its core, true leadership is about inspiring people around you. When your actions encourage others to dream big, learn new things, take action, and grow into their best selves, you're embodying what it means to lead.

John Quincy Adams, the sixth president of the United States, is often credited with this quote. He had a deep understanding of leadership, having navigated both politics and diplomacy during his time. But don't get lost in history—this idea is timeless. Think about any mentor or role model who's influenced you. Chances are, they didn't just tell you what to do; they showed you through their actions and the way they lived their life.

Let's dive into a real-life example. Take Malala Yousafzai, the young Pakistani activist for girls' education. Her bravery and determination in the face of extreme adversity have inspired millions around the globe. Despite being attacked for standing up for her beliefs, she continued to advocate for education. Her actions have led countless others to dream of a future where education is a right for all, learn about the importance of standing up for one's beliefs, take action in their own communities, and grow into advocates themselves. Malala didn't just tell people to value education—she lived that value every single day.

Now, how can you apply this wisdom in your life? Start by identifying your core values and living them consistently. If you value kindness, show it in your interactions. If continuous learning is important to you, be curious and share your knowledge. People will notice, and they'll be inspired not just by your words, but by how you embody your principles. Remember, leading by example is incredibly powerful.

Imagine you're a manager at work. Instead of micromanaging your team, you empower them. You take on challenges and show resilience in tough times. You listen actively and value their input. Over time, they start taking initiative, learning new skills, and pushing the boundaries of what they thought possible. They see you handling stress with grace and start doing the same. You didn't explicitly teach them these skills—you demonstrated through your actions.

Picture a teacher who goes beyond the textbook. They encourage students to ask questions, explore subjects they're passionate about, and think critically. One student, maybe a little shy at first, starts participating more. They pick up a topic they love and dive deep, even outside of class. Another student, inspired by the teacher's genuine curiosity and enthusiasm, starts dreaming about pursuing a career in science. Years later, that student becomes a researcher, making breakthroughs and mentoring the next generation. That teacher didn’t just teach a curriculum—they inspired dreams, learning, action, and growth.

So next time you think about leadership, don't get caught up in titles or authority. Reflect on your actions and the ripple effects they create. Aim to be the kind of person who lights up the path for others, who encourages them to dream bigger, learn more, and become the best versions of themselves. It's not always about grand gestures; sometimes, it’s the small, consistent actions that leave the most lasting impact.