"The best CEOs I know are teachers, and at the core of what they teach is strategy"

Think about the best leaders you know. What sets them apart? It's not just their decision-making or their ability to inspire—it's their knack for teaching. The core idea here is that the most effective CEOs are also great teachers, and what they focus on teaching is strategy. Teaching allows them to instill a sense of direction and purpose in their teams, ensuring everyone is aligned and understands the bigger picture.

Now, let's dive into some context. This concept likely stems from the evolving nature of leadership in the modern business world. In the past, CEOs might have been seen as dictatorial figures who handed down orders. But times have changed. Nowadays, effective leadership is about collaboration, mentorship, and education. It's about guiding your team with a clear vision and strategy, rather than just telling them what to do.

Imagine this in a real-life scenario. Let's take Satya Nadella, the CEO of Microsoft. When he took over in 2014, Microsoft was struggling to keep up with the rapid changes in the tech world. Nadella didn't just come in and start barking orders. Instead, he focused on teaching his team the strategy behind the company's new direction towards cloud computing and AI. He communicated clearly why this shift was necessary, what the goals were, and how they could achieve them together. By doing this, he turned Microsoft around, making it one of the most valuable companies in the world again.

So, how can you apply this wisdom in your own life or work? Start by embracing a teaching mindset. When you're in a position of leadership—whether it's at work, in a community group, or even within your family—focus on educating those around you about the strategy and vision. Explain not just the 'what', but the 'why' and 'how'. This helps build a shared understanding and commitment to the goals.

Imagine you're managing a project at work. Instead of just delegating tasks, take the time to explain the overall strategy and objectives to your team. Let them know how their individual contributions fit into the bigger picture. This way, everyone feels more connected to the project and motivated to achieve the common goal.

Here's a relatable story to bring it home. Picture a small bakery owner named Lisa. Lisa's got a great product, but her team isn't performing well. Instead of just telling her bakers what to do, she decides to teach them. She explains her strategy for the bakery—how focusing on quality ingredients and exceptional customer service will set them apart from the competition. She shows them how each role, from the cashier to the baker, contributes to this strategy. Over time, her team starts to understand and embrace this vision. They work together more effectively and passionately, and the bakery thrives.

In the end, being a leader is about more than just guiding—it's about teaching. When you share your strategy and vision with your team, you empower them to work together towards common goals. So, next time you're in a leadership role, think like a teacher. Share your knowledge, explain your strategy, and watch how it transforms your team's performance and morale. And remember, it's not about being perfect, it's about being clear and passionate in your teaching.