Leadership is not just about authority, strategy, or decision-making. it is about people. Recently, I attended a meeting where an important topic arose: following up on those who haven’t been seen or heard from for a while. The discussion brought to light a troubling perspective.
Someone shared an example of my own absence for some time and mentioned how no one had checked in on them. One leader’s response stood out: “A person should be mature enough and not need someone to check on them.”
This statement, while straightforward, carried an unsettling undertone—a lack of care.
Leadership Without Care Is Not Leadership
True leadership is not selective in its attention. The essence of being a leader is looking out for everyone, not just a chosen few. Leaders are entrusted with the well-being of their teams, and this responsibility requires care, empathy, and connection.
When leaders prioritize only those they deem “worth their time,” they create an environment of exclusion and disconnection. This approach breeds resentment, disengagement, and a breakdown of trust. People are less likely to follow someone who doesn’t value them equally.
Leadership Then and Now
Reflecting on my experience, I was taught that leadership means being there for everyone, regardless of rank, performance, or personality. No one was ever considered less important. We were trained to recognize that everyone on the team mattered—and that their well-being was interconnected with the team’s overall success.
It seems, however, that some leaders today may not have received this foundational training. Leadership is not just a title; it is an ongoing effort to serve others. A leader’s role is to lift, encourage, and bring out the best in others, not to judge who is deserving of their attention.
Why Leaders Must Check In
- Fostering Inclusion: When leaders take time to check in, they signal that every individual matters. This cultivates a sense of belonging and unity within the team.
- Building Trust: A simple “How are you doing?” shows care and builds trust, which is the cornerstone of effective leadership.
- Boosting Morale: Feeling seen and heard can boost a person’s confidence and motivation.
- Strengthening Teams: Strong leaders know that a thriving team requires connection. When one member struggles in silence, it can affect the whole group.
Striving to Be Better
Leadership isn’t perfect, but it should always strive to improve. As leaders, we must hold ourselves accountable. When we fail to check in with others, we miss opportunities to connect and support. It’s a reminder that we can and must do better.
Leadership is about lifting others, being present, and creating an environment where every individual feels valued. Caring isn’t a weakness; it’s a strength—a sign of a leader who truly understands their purpose.
Let’s all strive to lead with care. Because when we do, we not only bring out the best in others, but we also become the kind of leaders others are proud to follow.