“Power is not given to you. You have to take it.” This quote from Game of Thrones resonates with the workplace, where opportunities to assume leadership often aren't just handed out. Employees must recognize moments when stepping into a position of power aligns with their energy, purpose, and personal mission. But how does one know when it’s the right time to assume a leadership role? And more importantly, why should they take that step?
Photo Courtesy of Wix media
Stepping Up When the Need is Bigger Than Yourself
Leadership is often born out of necessity. When the team's goals or the organization’s needs exceed what’s currently being managed, someone must rise to meet the challenge. Harvard Business Review points out that employees who show initiative in tackling larger problems not only display leadership but also position themselves for career growth. By embracing the team’s challenges as your own, you demonstrate that you are capable of leading others toward solutions.
One prime example of stepping into power occurs during high-stakes moments when the organization faces a crisis or a significant opportunity. As Deloitte emphasizes in its leadership development research, effective leaders step forward when the stakes are highest. They channel their energy toward solutions, creating a ripple effect that energizes the rest of the team.
Alignment with Personal Mission
Desire is a critical factor in leadership. As Paul J. Meyer notes, “Developing sincere desire” for leadership and responsibility is essential in any leadership role. When an employee's personal mission aligns with the organization's needs, it creates a synergy that propels both personal and organizational success. This alignment isn't just about fitting into a job description, but about leading from a place of authenticity and purpose. As McKinsey's research points out, leaders who derive energy from their sense of purpose exhibit higher levels of engagement and productivity.
One should ask: Does this opportunity align with who I am and what I want to achieve? If the answer is yes, that desire will fuel the energy needed to step up, take ownership, and lead effectively.
The Joy in Leadership: Enjoyment as a Key Factor
At times, we overlook the sheer joy and fulfillment that comes from leadership. Maya Angelou once said, "My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor, and some style." Taking on leadership can and should be enjoyable. Leaders who genuinely enjoy leading others radiate a contagious energy. They not only lead because they are capable, but because they find fulfillment in helping others grow.
Gallup research shows that managers who find personal joy in their leadership roles often foster the most productive and engaged teams. Employees should seize leadership roles when they know they can inject that passion into their work, spreading it to the team.
The Energy to Lead
Leadership requires immense energy. Stepping into power at the wrong time—when you’re already stretched thin—can lead to burnout. A strategic approach is needed. According to McKinsey’s insights on energy management, effective leaders know how to conserve and channel their energy. This means that employees should seek leadership roles when they are mentally, emotionally, and physically ready to handle the extra responsibility.
To illustrate this, think about legendary films like The Lord of the Rings. Frodo Baggins was reluctant at first, but when he recognized that he had the energy and resilience to carry the burden of the One Ring, he stepped into the role. He understood the significance of timing—he took on the challenge when it was necessary and when he had enough internal reserves to face it.
Fit with Role and Organization
Finally, stepping into a position of power is about more than ambition; it’s about fit. Harvard Business Review outlines the importance of ensuring that leadership opportunities align with the role, culture, and broader organizational goals. Just as an ill-fitting shoe can make walking painful, a mismatch between leadership style and organizational culture can lead to failure. Employees should assess whether they are the right person to meet the needs of the team or the organization. Are you the leader your organization needs now?
Furthermore, as outlined in the Effective Strategic Leadership material, aligning personal goals with organizational strategy creates a harmonious balance that fosters growth on both fronts. Taking on leadership is about achieving personal success while driving the organization toward its strategic vision.
The Right Time, the Right Reasons
When should an employee assume power? When they have the energy, desire, and alignment with the organization’s mission, and when stepping into leadership is not just about their own success but about fulfilling a need larger than themselves. Employees should assume positions of power not merely to rise in the ranks but to bring joy, fulfillment, and a sense of purpose to their work.
As the great poet William Shakespeare said, “Some are born great, some achieve greatness, and some have greatness thrust upon them.” Recognize your time, align with your purpose, and take that step when the need for leadership becomes too big to ignore.
Renwick Brutus' career has spanned roles as research economist, wealth manager, entrepreneur, consultant, executive coach and author. He holds an MBA from Fordham University and has been recognized for his outstanding achievement in sales and business leadership. Today, Renwick applies his unique blend of business strategy and interpersonal skills to help individuals flourish and companies grow. He owns multiple ventures, coaches business leaders and speaks on becoming irresistible and financially invincible. Contact him by email and LinkedIn.
References:
Harvard Business Review. When Leaders Know It’s Time to Step In. 2020.
Gallup Research. The State of the American Manager. 2017.
McKinsey & Company. Energy and Leadership: Strategies for Staying Energized. 2022.
Deloitte. Leadership Development Trends. 2019.
Meyer, Paul J. Effective Strategic Leadership. Achievement Resources. 2015.
Comments