The Leadership Giver - Inspiring Through Service

In a world obsessed with taking, winning, and climbing the ladder, the Leadership Giver stands apart. This is leadership that doesn’t crave titles or trophies—it thrives on impact. True leadership isn’t about hoarding power or basking in recognition; it’s about giving—giving your time, your energy, your empathy, and the opportunities that lift others higher.

Real leaders don’t count their accolades; they count the lives they’ve touched and the difference they’ve made. They inspire through action, knowing their legacy is built not on what they’ve achieved but on what they’ve given.

So, how can you embrace the mindset of a Leadership Giver and create a ripple effect of bold, transformative change? Let’s dive in.

The Leadership Giver in Action

1. Giving Time

Time is one of the most valuable gifts a leader can give. When you make time for others, you show that their development and concerns matter.

• Story of a Mentor: A manager notices a struggling team member. Instead of reprimanding them, she dedicates an hour weekly to coaching them. Over months, the employee grows in confidence and delivers a game-changing project for the company. Takeaway: Giving time demonstrates trust and commitment, building loyalty and growth in those you lead.

2. Giving Recognition

Leaders who give credit inspire motivation and foster a culture of appreciation. Acknowledging someone’s effort can turn a mundane job into a meaningful journey.

• The Shout-Out Champion: At a weekly team meeting, a leader highlights not just the top performer but the quiet contributors who embody the team’s values. This practice inspires everyone to feel seen and valued, increasing engagement. Takeaway: Recognition is a simple yet powerful way to uplift others and create a culture of belonging.

3. Giving Empathy

Empathy is the cornerstone of human-centric leadership. Giving space for others’ feelings can transform relationships and break down barriers.

• Listening Leader: During a high-stress quarter, a leader notices burnout in their team. They hold one-on-one check-ins, asking, “How can I support you?” This creates a safe space for team members to open up and reduces turnover. Takeaway: Empathy fosters trust, resilience, and stronger connections.

4. Giving Opportunities

Great leaders don’t hoard opportunities; they share them to help others grow.

• The Delegator: A seasoned executive invites a junior employee to present a proposal to a client. The junior employee gains confidence and visibility, and the team flourishes knowing their leader believes in them. Takeaway: Sharing opportunities empowers others and builds a culture of growth.

5. Giving Encouragement

Words of encouragement can be a lifeline for someone doubting their abilities.

• The Coach: A leader tells a colleague battling imposter syndrome, “You’re more capable than you think. Take the leap—I’ve got your back.” This pushes them to tackle challenges they would have otherwise avoided. Takeaway: Encouragement fuels courage and helps people see their potential.

The Ripple Effect of Giving Leadership

Being a Leadership Giver creates a ripple effect. Your actions inspire others to lead by giving as well. Consider the story of Roz Brewer, CEO of Walgreens Boots Alliance. She often shares how her mentors gave her the confidence to dream big. Now, she pays it forward as a leader by championing diversity and mentoring young professionals, creating a new generation of givers.

Practical Steps to Be a Leadership Giver

1. Start Small: Look for small, consistent ways to give—whether it’s a compliment, advice, or a listening ear.

2. Empower Others: Delegate meaningful tasks and trust others to deliver.

3. Ask, “How Can I Help?”: This simple question shows you’re ready to serve.

4. Celebrate Successes: Take time to recognise milestones, no matter how small.

5. Be Present: Put distractions aside and give others your undivided attention.

Closing Thought

Being a Leadership Giver is about making a conscious choice to serve others, even when it’s inconvenient. It’s about leading with kindness, courage, and authenticity. Remember, the more you give, the more you inspire—and in leadership, inspiration is the greatest gift of all.

So, how will you give today?

Role Models: Leaders Who Inspire Us Through Action

In a world filled with influencers and celebrities, the most impactful role models are those who lead by example—demonstrating courage, empathy, authenticity, and service in their daily lives. Real role models aren’t perfect; they’re relatable, resilient, and dedicated to making a difference.

Here are some exceptional real-life leaders who inspire through their actions:

1. Christine Holgate: Leadership with Purpose

• Why She Inspires: Christine Holgate is known for her tenacity and unwavering commitment to fairness, especially during her time at Australia Post. Despite facing public and professional scrutiny, she remained resilient and focused on empowering others. Her advocacy for women in leadership and ethical governance stands as a testament to courageous leadership.

• What We Learn: True leadership is about standing firm in your values, even in the face of adversity.

2. Shemara Wikramanayake: Breaking Barriers

• Why She Inspires: As the CEO of Macquarie Group, Shemara Wikramanayake leads with innovation and inclusion. She’s one of the most influential women in finance, consistently championing sustainability and diversity in a traditionally male-dominated industry.

• What We Learn: Leadership is about breaking barriers and paving the way for others.

3. Jacinda Ardern: Leading with Empathy

• Why She Inspires: The former Prime Minister of New Zealand redefined leadership by showing that compassion and strength can coexist. From her response to the Christchurch tragedy to her calm handling of the pandemic, she exemplified empathy and decisive action.

• What We Learn: Empathy is not a weakness; it’s a leadership superpower.

4. Paul Scurrah: Human-Centric Leadership

• Why He Inspires: As a leader in the transport and logistics industries, Paul Scurrah prioritizes people over profits. His ability to balance business objectives with genuine care for his teams and communities sets him apart.

• What We Learn: Leadership isn’t just about achieving results; it’s about how you achieve them.

5. Indra Nooyi: Transformational Leadership

• Why She Inspires: As the former CEO of PepsiCo, Indra Nooyi brought purpose-driven change to the corporate world. Her emphasis on "performance with purpose" led PepsiCo toward sustainability while fostering a people-first culture.

• What We Learn: Great leaders create a vision that benefits both the organization and the world.

7. Malala Yousafzai: Courage in Action

• Why She Inspires: Surviving an assassination attempt for advocating girls’ education, Malala has become a global symbol of courage and activism. Her continued fight for equality and education reminds us of the power of standing up for what’s right.

• What We Learn: Leadership begins when you use your voice to make a difference, even in the face of danger.

8. Dr. Richard Harris and Dr. Craig Challen: Heroes in Crisis

• Why They Inspire: These two Australians played pivotal roles in the 2018 Thai cave rescue, risking their lives to save 12 boys and their coach. Their expertise, humility, and teamwork inspired millions worldwide.

• What We Learn: Leadership often means stepping up when others are counting on you most.

9. Sonia McDonald: Courageous Leadership Advocate

• Why She Inspires: Sonia is a global advocate for courageous leadership, inspiring leaders to embrace kindness and boldness. Her dedication to mentoring and empowering women highlights the transformative power of leadership driven by heart and purpose.

• What We Learn: Leadership is about making others believe in themselves and their potential.

10. Cathy Freeman: Leading by Example

• Why She Inspires: Cathy Freeman didn’t just win gold at the Sydney Olympics; she united a nation. As an Indigenous Australian, her achievements on and off the track continue to inspire conversations about inclusion, resilience, and representation.

• What We Learn: Leadership is about showing the world what’s possible and inspiring change through your actions.

What Makes a Real Role Model?

• Authenticity: They lead with their true selves, embracing their strengths and vulnerabilities.

• Courage: They stand up for their values, even when it’s uncomfortable.

• Service: They dedicate themselves to uplifting others.

• Resilience: They overcome challenges and inspire others to do the same.

Who’s Your Role Model?

Think about the leaders who inspire you. What lessons do they teach? What values do they embody? Use their examples to shape your leadership journey and leave your own lasting legacy.

Who are you inspired by? Let’s celebrate their impact together.

🎄 Merry Christmas from LeadershipHQ and Sonia McDonald!

As the year draws to a close, we want to take a moment to thank YOU—our incredible community of leaders, dreamers, and changemakers.

This year has been filled with challenges, growth, and triumphs, and through it all, you've inspired us with your courage, kindness, and commitment to making a difference.

Here’s to: ✨ Leading with heart and purpose. ✨ Embracing authenticity and courage. ✨ Lifting others and building a brighter future together.

May your holiday season be filled with love, laughter, and moments that remind you of the magic of connection. As we enter a new year, let’s continue to lead boldly, lift others, and create a world where leadership is about kindness, courage, and impact.

From all of us at LeadershipHQ and Sonia McDonald: 🎁 Have a joyful, restful, and inspiring Christmas!

Here’s to YOU—because the world needs your leadership now more than ever.

With love and gratitude, Sonia McDonald & the LeadershipHQ Team