I saw this the other day on Facebook. I’m a huge fan of the movie Tombstone, especially with Kurt Russell and Val Kilmer respectfully playing Wyatt Earp and Doc Holiday.

As I looked and thought about that picture, I realized the amount of unsaid leadership in it and how it holds profound significance. True leadership isn’t about amassing a large following but cultivating a loyal and dedicated team. Large followings take up more than space.

How often have you seen leaders who amass a following because it makes them feel “large and in charge?” They believe “strength in numbers” belongs to how they manage their many minions. Their “circle” is as big as the equator and is more of a hole than being whole.

A few thoughts regarding a tight circle of loyalty…

1. Quality over quantity – It’s about depth and substance. The smaller the circle, the stronger it is. Too many times we find others who do nothing more than take up oxygen.
2. Loyalty breeds commitment – Being around like-minded people with kindred spirits is contagious. I love it when I see others want others to succeed in their group; why would you not? On the flip side, we see some who can’t shine the spotlight on others because they have an iron fist holding the spotlight on themselves.
3. Mutual trust and respect – Large circle wannabe leaders demand both from others without giving it themselves. Trust and respect go both ways and foster an environment of unity. Tight circle loyalty understands the strengths and weaknesses and embraces them for success.
4. Resilience – When adversity hits, that circle’s bond gets tight. Loyalty will never turn its back. Oh, but how many leaders do just that?
5. Inspiring – How often do we see leaders who mandate orders and micromanage others to loyalty of fear? Inspirational leaders are models and radiate.
6. Longevity – Stands the test of time and does not sway with the trends. Enduring success comes from loyalty within the circle, not outside it.

I showed the above picture to a friend the other day and said, “You know, my circle is getting smaller and smaller the older I get.” My friend stated, “Yes, it does.” However, I never want it to become a dot where it’s only me. But amazingly, I see many leaders who become a dot because no one wants to be in their circle.

Leadership is not a numbers game, but so many want it that way. With an entourage, they are carried on the shoulders of those who bow and cower. The thought, “It’s not about the size of the circle; it’s the loyalty in it,” captures the essence of effective leadership, ultimately achieving remarkable outcomes and leaving a lasting legacy.

Go be a great educator and leader today… Our future needs it…