August 18, 2026
Those of us in leadership roles continually set the tone for the people we influence. The key is to bear this in mind even when we have no audience in front of us. Leaders are always being observed; and whether we realize it or not, we are always on stage.
If we speak badly or raise our voices with each other, we have set an example for those around us. If, on the other hand, we prioritize calm, logical conversations, we will set a more constructive example. These principles apply equally to our business and personal lives. When it comes to leading through conflict, leaders are always on stage.
In the workplace, if we smile and aim to find the positive, our employees will likely follow our lead. If we are grumpy and fault-finding, we cannot reasonably criticize our team members for acting the same way. When it comes to establishing a workplace culture, leaders are always on stage.
Organizational leaders make decisions all the time–as the job demands–and occasionally, we will make a bad one. Our reaction to that misstep says a lot about us as leaders. If we look the other way and act as if nothing went wrong, our people will not be fooled. To deny a wrong turn is to dig a hole for ourselves. Our people know we screwed up, so why pretend otherwise? When it comes to setting our organization’s course, leaders are always on stage.
As friends, parents, or neighbors, our conduct influences those around us in more ways than we realize. There is always the possibility that someone in your orbit is looking up to you. In such a case, your actions set the behavioral standard. As a leader in your family or in your community, you are always on stage.
If the idea of having a permanent audience feels a bit intimidating to you, I understand; but I also encourage you to see it as an opportunity. Use your platform to create the culture you want to see. Share everything: strategies, processes, future plans, the status of your company, and anything else that can facilitate a greater sense of understanding and belonging. It is pretty simple — the more our team understands about the business, the more they can contribute. This is just one way you can use your powers for good when you are on stage.
As leaders, whether at home, at work, or in community with others, we are setting the example for those around us. Walk the high road, and your people will walk the high road with you. Leaders are always on stage—embrace it.
published Nashville Business Journal
