Being a positive leader doesn’t mean you put on a smile and accept mediocrity.  It means you see the potential in others and inspire and challenge them to reach it.  – Jon Gordon

We spend a lot of time talking about culture.  There are those who mistakenly think that good leaders create culture by supporting everyone in the organization.  There are those who mistakenly think that a leader is blindly loyal and encourages everyone to do their own thing.

The truth is a leader builds a positive culture by leading with clarity and focus.  We are all leaders, but we also must be aligned in common purpose and mission.  Leaders don’t accept mediocrity . . . they inspire greatness.  Leaders don’t permit behavior that contradicts the organizations values . . . leaders challenge the organization to weed-out mediocrity.

And yes, leaders must have courageous conversations.  Leaders must, from time to time, make decisions that some people may not be best for the organization.  With clarity comes support and accountability . . . leaders provide support and hold the organization accountable for success.

You are a leader.  You control your 20 square feet.  Don’t permit mediocrity in your space.