Leadership wasn’t something I actively sought; it was something that found me. It’s easy to think of leadership as a title, a role of authority, or a position. But I’ve learned that true leadership goes far beyond titles. It’s about the heart, the decisions you make, and the growth you inspire in others. It’s about the quiet moments, the tough calls, and the power to shape a better future.

I started my career in the classroom, as a faculty member in a multimedia and animation institute. Teaching wasn’t just a job—it was a passion. I began small, eager to share knowledge, and eventually became the academic head, overseeing operations and leading a team. Every step felt like a new challenge, but it was one I embraced.

Then, life threw a curveball. I took a leap into the world of UX/UI design—an entirely different arena. I started as an intermediate designer, eager to learn and prove myself. But soon, I felt stuck. Growth wasn’t visible, and I knew I had to take a leap again.

The next move was risky. I joined a company that didn’t yet have a structured design team but had big ambitions. The leadership trusted me, and I thrived. I built a team, led projects, and presented design strategies to clients. It was during this phase that I truly realized the power of great leadership—how it could empower teams, unlock potential, and make a real difference.

But not all experiences were uplifting. A role at a startup crushed my enthusiasm. I joined with the dream of building something great, but it quickly turned into a toxic environment with no room for creativity or respect for experience. I knew I couldn’t stay. This tough experience taught me a powerful lesson: leadership isn’t about control or power—it’s about respect, freedom, and supporting those you lead.

In my next role, though technically a step down in title, my passion for leadership was reignited. I was given the opportunity to revamp products and redefine the brand. New ideas were embraced and encouraged to innovate. I felt motivated again. I came in every day thinking, What can I do today to make things better?

These experiences—both the uplifting and the challenging—taught me that leadership isn’t about titles or authority. It’s about inspiring others to reach their potential, motivating them to go beyond their limits, and fostering a culture of growth and trust. Here are the lessons I’ve learned along the way:

1. Integrity: The Foundation of Long-Term Success

Integrity has been the bedrock of my leadership journey. Early on, I faced the temptation to compromise when the pressures of recession hit and enrollment numbers dropped. Salaries were delayed, and the pressure to meet targets was immense. But I chose to stand firm in my commitment to transparency and trust. I learned that true leadership isn’t about quick wins or cutting corners; it’s about making decisions rooted in values, even when the going gets tough. Integrity in leadership is what ensures long-term success and credibility, both for you and your team.

2. Empathy Is Key

There was a time when I fell ill with a high fever and reached out to my leader, expecting some support. Instead, I was met with the cold response: “Who will cover for you?” No compassion, no understanding—just deadlines. That moment hit me hard. I realized that leadership isn’t just about pushing for results; it’s about people. As a leader, I’ve made it a point to check in on my team, to ask how they’re doing beyond just work. A simple “How are you doing today?” can go a long way in building a team that is not only productive but also loyal and motivated. Empathy isn’t optional—it’s a necessity.

3. Lead with Respect, Not Control

In one role, I worked under a leader who believed pressure and late-night calls would drive performance. But that approach only led to burnout, frustration, and a lack of trust. I realized that leadership isn’t about exerting control over your team. It’s about inspiring them to do their best and treating them with respect. Leaders who respect their teams create an environment where people take ownership, rise to the occasion, and exceed expectations. Leadership built on respect cultivates collaboration, innovation, and trust—essential ingredients for success.

4. Growth Comes from Trust

One of my most transformative leadership moments was when I was tasked with building a team from the ground up. The leadership trusted me, and I reciprocated by trusting my team. I focused on hiring individuals with unique strengths, gave them clear expectations, and allowed them the autonomy to take ownership of their work. The result was remarkable. The team flourished, and the company thrived. I learned that micromanagement stifles creativity and motivation. When leaders build trust and offer opportunities for growth, teams can truly thrive.

5. Accountability Drives Success

One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is that accountability is crucial. In some organizations, problems were ignored, and blame was constantly shifted. This created confusion, frustration, and stagnation. But in environments where accountability is embraced, progress happens. As a leader, I made sure to set clear expectations and hold both myself and my team accountable for results. Accountability isn’t about punishing mistakes—it’s about fostering responsibility and learning from setbacks. When leaders set the example, it encourages a culture of responsibility, empowering everyone to contribute their best.

6. Decision-Making: Confidence and Clarity

Leadership is full of decision-making, and the key to success is acting with confidence. There were times when I hesitated, afraid of making the wrong decision. But I soon realized that hesitation stalls progress and creates uncertainty. Acting decisively, with a clear understanding of your values, is what builds trust. Every decision won’t be perfect, but the act of making decisions with confidence and integrity sets the tone for your team. Leadership is about being decisive, even when faced with uncertainty.

7. Adaptability Is Non-Negotiable

The world around us is constantly changing—markets evolve, technology shifts, and trends come and go. The leaders who resist change will eventually be left behind. I’ve learned that the best leaders are lifelong learners. They read, listen, adapt, and evolve with the times. Flexibility isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s essential for survival. Leaders who embrace change, lead with curiosity, and adapt quickly are the ones who stay ahead of the curve.

8. Develop Future Leaders

A leader’s legacy isn’t defined by personal accomplishments but by the leaders they help create. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of mentoring individuals who have gone on to achieve incredible things. That, to me, is the true measure of success. Great leaders understand that their role goes beyond managing teams—they actively develop future leaders.

One key part of this is ensuring that team members are well-trained in the tools they use. My experience as a trainer has been invaluable in this regard, helping me guide my team effectively. By understanding the tools and workflows myself, I can step in when a team member is on leave or when we need to speed up a project for delivery. This hands-on knowledge allows me to lead by example, troubleshoot issues, and keep things moving without bottlenecks. By equipping my team with knowledge and ensuring I stay proficient in our tools, I create a culture of preparedness and continuous learning.

Final Thoughts: What Kind of Leader Will You Be?

Every challenge, every tough experience, and every leader—whether inspiring or not—has left a lasting impact on me. But here’s the real question: What kind of leader do you want to be? Will you be a leader who shapes the future, who builds a lasting legacy, or one who merely follows the status quo? Leadership is about showing others the way, inspiring them to grow, and encouraging them to achieve more than they ever thought possible. So, I ask you: What kind of leader will you choose to be?