3 Distinctions That Separate Great Leaders From Profound Leaders

This Father’s Day I was a fortunate spectator at a university commencement ceremony. Even more profound for me, it was the graduation festivities for my oldest child from DePaul University in Chicago. A proud moment for sure.

As the graduates crossed the dais embracing their diploma portfolio, many of the of them captured a performative moment to celebrate for the multiple cameras that peppered the arena projecting the joyous affair onto the big screen. Some smiled large gestures of joy, danced and waved, blew kisses to the crowd, while others waved flags, referenced current political events, or even made signals of protest. 

In the midst of this celebration this got me thinking about…what else?…leadership. Specifically, leadership and vision.

It is no mystery that good leaders are capable of casting a clear future vision. And great leaders can catalyze a group of people to pursue that vision.

But this ceremony helped me remember three important distinctions that separate great leaders from Profound Leaders.

First, a great leader is in touch with an idea, but a Profound Leader is in touch with the people behind that idea.

People desire to be led. Yes, people want a direction; a vision. Providing a vision is not just an idyllic future state. It is also like giving people a road map to to get there. It provides not only direction, but gives people a common language, offers the ability to distinguish contrasting pathways or agendas, and provides boundaries for productivity and efficiency.

A vision is more than just ideation…it strategically encompasses underlying leadership motives. Profound Leaders are in touch with the people’s desire to be led, and the people’s need for a roadmap.

Second, for a great leader, the stage of graduation is a success story. For the Profound Leader, it is a milestone on the roadmap. The vision of Profound Leaders draws them into the future.

Getting to the dais is an accomplishment in itself. It shows diligence, hard work, and focus. It represents the courage to learn and grow, as well as the tenacity to finish. But now what?

I wondered briefly, how many of those amazing graduates reached the height of their growth? And how many of them have an even bigger vision; one that goes beyond the stage. I hope many do. Profound Leaders are drawn into the future by their vision.

Third, great leaders thank those who helped them achieve. Profound Leaders in-debt themselves to their supporters, and continue to catalyze their visionary efforts.

It is easy to overlook the importance of appreciating all those who support you. It is easy to think that your accomplishments are yours alone. The truth is there are multitudes of people who surround you and support you. I witnessed lots of gratitude at that commencement. It makes me hopeful for a future filled with Profound Leaders. 

Truly Profound Leaders in-debt themselves into their supporters, and continue to coalesce their people into a community. The people you lead, are the lifeblood of your vision. You will only accomplish it together.

Go be Profound.

G