There are so many pundits, gurus, books and retreats that focus on the great mysteries of leadership that a good number of people don't consider themselves leaders at all. In fact, many people think that leaders are "them" — someone else who holds a particular title and responsibility.

Leaders may hold specific titles, and they often have responsibility, but not all who have lofty titles are leaders, and not all alleged leaders are responsible, as the scandals of the past few years have shown. Paradoxically, someone may be a gifted leader but not have any interest in a title or any formal show of responsibility at all.

Indeed, some leaders "lead quietly," and while they may never make the popular news headlines, their skillfulness may affect many people positively. Others, like Gandhi, may lead many through inspired word and action while never directly employing or having responsibility for anyone but him or herself.

At it's best, true leadership is more a set of refined values, traits and interpersonal skills than it is some great mystery that can only be experienced by the few. That said, leadership, which is just a form of mastery, is not for those who are happy with the status quo, who fear leaving their comfort zone, who retreat to the mediocre. Leaders have an inherent determination to make the most of their time on the planet, and persevere in the face of uncertainty, fearfulness or imperfection.

True leadership

While many books and leadership retreats talk about the science of being a leader, and give the impression that the only leaders are white, male, nearing-60 and working as CEOs in large corporations or governments, true leaders are out stepping beyond their current boundaries, pushing beyond limiting standards and doubts, practicing to reach new levels of skillfulness, and just getting things done. They're increasing their awareness of where they are in their consciousness and interpersonal skillfulness, and determining how they can make a positive, uplifting contribute to their company, community or the world.

Their goals may be quiet or public, nuanced or large in scale. But these leaders aren't waiting for someone else to give them permission to progress on their path, and they aren't stopping because they don't get accolades from status-quo worshippers. When they need inspiration, they seek it out. When they need rejuvenation, they make time for it. When it's time for right action, they summon the courage to take it despite their fears. These are the true leaders, the ones whose contributions have been real, significant, and lasting.

Set your authentic leader free

Everyone is a leader, or a potential leader, in some area of life or livelihood. Who do you know that "leads their own way" in some way, great or small? What historical figure gives you inspiration to persevere through challenges? Where in your life do you exercise personal leadership? What refinements in your personal leadership skillfulness would you like to celebrate three or six months from now? Write them down, and lead the way!