If you’ve ever worked hard, done everything “right,” and still felt invisible when opportunities show up—whether it’s a promotion, a leadership role, or recognition—you’re not alone. A lot of talented, hardworking people quietly wonder:
“What am I missing?” The truth is, leadership isn't just about titles or how long you've been in the game. It’s about value—the kind of value people can see, feel, and trust. If your value stays the same, your influence stays the same.
You can be good at your job and still stay stuck. Why? Because you haven’t grown your value.
Here’s the problem:
In today’s fast-moving world, leadership isn’t just earned through loyalty or technical skill—it’s given to those who bring relevant, evolving value. People who solve higher-level problems, think strategically, and consistently level up. When you fail to grow your value, here's what happens:
It’s frustrating. But it’s fixable.
If leadership is influence, then value is what earns you that influence.
Here’s a 4-step approach to growing your value intentionally:
Leadership in a non-profit looks different than in a startup. First, ask:
Action Step: Make a list of 3–5 high-value contributions your role or industry demands (e.g., strategic thinking, emotional intelligence, innovation, mentoring others).
Don’t just get “better”—get better at what matters.
Choose one skill, mindset, or capacity to grow over the next 90 days.
Action Step: Take an online course, shadow a senior leader, or ask for stretch assignments in that area. A marketing associate who masters analytics + storytelling becomes more valuable than someone who only runs campaigns.
Leadership visibility comes from showing—not shouting—your progress. This could be through results, feedback, or thoughtful insights you bring to the table.
Action Step: Volunteer for projects, speak up in meetings, or share insights with your team that reflect your new level of understanding. Your Influence grows when people see your value in action.
The fastest way to be seen as a leader is to create other leaders. Support your team, mentor juniors, share resources.
Action Step: Once a week, ask yourself: “Who did I help grow this week?”
“I’m too busy.”
Growth doesn’t require hours—it requires intention. Even 20 minutes a day of focused improvement can compound over time.
“I don’t know where to start.”
Start with feedback. Ask trusted peers or mentors: “What’s one area where I could grow to be more effective?”
“I’m not naturally a leader.”
Leadership isn’t about personality—it’s about contribution. The more value you bring, the more influence you gain.
You don’t have to wait for someone to call you a leader before you become one. Grow your value—and leadership will follow.
So here’s your next step:
1. Choose one area of growth that will increase your value in the next 30 days.
2. Start today. Take one action that makes you more useful, more insightful, or more impactful. Because when you grow your value, you don’t just improve your career, you expand your capacity to lead, influence, and make a lasting difference.
