Coach Leach had a pretty simple definition of leadership:

"The ability to elevate the group."

I loved it because it provided a number of different roads and paths that all led to the same destination.

Growing up, I thought leadership looked a certain way—primarily that it was loud, vocal, outspoken, and out in front of the group.

That wasn’t naturally my leadership style.

So, when I tried to lead that way, I became more self-conscious about how I looked rather than focusing on the task of leading. I’m also sure the people around me saw right through it.

As a result, I wasn’t "elevating the group."

It wasn’t until I got to Washington State and heard Leach’s definition that I realized the fundamental principle of leadership: be your authentic self and lead from there.

For a number of years, I found exactly that.

It’s fun to look back at Leach’s teams and quarterbacks because of how different their personalities were. Some were vocal, some were introverted, some were quirky, some were serious, and some had a John Wayne personality.

But there was one commonality.

Leach, as a leader, elevated the group. And he helped each of his quarterbacks do the same in a way that fit who they were.

So the first step to becoming a great leader is simple:

Know thyself... and start from there.

 Easy Easy,

-Luke Falk

See you next Monday!