Walk to Work

On my walk to work this morning I’m reflecting about a book I recently read. Chapman, B. & Sisodis, R. (2015). Everybody Matters: The Extraordinary Power of Caring for Your PEOPLE Like FAMILY. Penguin Random House.

In a world where traditional management practices often prioritize efficiency over people, Everybody Matters reminds us of the extraordinary power of caring for those we lead like family. True leadership is not about managing systems or chasing profits—it’s about stewardship, accountability, and the deep responsibility we have for the lives entrusted to us.

Leadership is the art of recognizing that every single person on our team matters. Each individual brings unique gifts, talents, and potential to the table. Our role as leaders is to create a culture where those gifts can flourish, where people are valued, and where they leave each day knowing that their contributions make a difference.

When we focus on our people, we cultivate trust, build a sense of belonging, and inspire meaningful engagement. This isn’t just about exceptional talent or standout performers; it’s about every person, no matter their role, being seen, heard, and appreciated. We measure success not by financial results alone, but by how we touch the lives of others—how we lift them, how we guide them to be their best selves.

Building this kind of culture requires us to lead with an abundance mindset—an abundance of patience, love, and opportunity. It requires us to listen more, trust more, and celebrate the unique strengths that each person brings. When we trust our people, empower them to solve problems, and recognize their efforts, we ignite a fire that spreads across the organization.

As leaders, our mission is clear: To send our people home safe, healthy, and fulfilled every day. This is not just about hitting targets or achieving goals; it’s about creating an environment where people can grow, thrive, and realize their full potential. Every decision we make, every conversation we have, should align with this purpose.

Let’s walk alongside the dreamers, the doers, and the believers—those who inspire us to leave the world a little better than we found it. Let’s be the kind of leaders who light fires in others, who build cultures of trust and compassion, and who understand that leadership is not about us, but about the people we serve.

Because in the end, leadership is simple: everybody truly does matter.