Don Meyer said, "You can pick the captains, but you can't pick the leaders. Whoever controls the locker room controls the team." Leadership is about your behavior. People follow leaders, not titles. Your title doesn't make you a leader, but here are 7 things that do: 1. Your Actions - Actions speak louder than words. You show leadership through your actions more effectively than through your title. This matters because actions are visible and tangible evidence of your commitment and capability. 2. Your Example - You lead by example. The standards you set through your own behavior are the ones people will follow. This matters because it establishes a benchmark for work ethic and values within the team. 3. Your Attitude - Your attitude sets the tone for everyone. A positive, proactive attitude can motivate others and drive a team forward. It's crucial because it directly affects the morale and the overall atmosphere of your environment. 4. Your Character - Your character defines who you are as a person and a leader. Consistently demonstrating virtues like integrity, courage, and humility sets an example for others. Strong character builds respect and trust, ensuring that others not only follow you, but also admire, trust, and believe in you. 5. Your Drive - Leadership requires a relentless pursuit of goals. The internal force to achieve and push boundaries inspires others to strive for their best. It's important because it creates a culture of growth, ambition, and progress. 6. Your Resilience - Leadership demands resilience in the face of challenges. Your ability to remain steadfast, learn from setbacks, and continue forward builds toughness and strength. This quality is important because it helps others persevere through those inevitable challenging times. 7. Your Empathy - Understanding and sharing the feelings of others make you approachable and respected as a leader. Empathy allows you to care and connect with your others on a deeper level. This is foundational to connection, loyalty, and teamwork.