Love your People, not your Position

I took over as the Vice President of an organization once and the first words out of my mouth at my first meeting with them is “I love you.” I genuinely felt that love toward them for all they did for our mission and vision of our company. They were dedicated people, team mates serving a cause of building relationships and bringing happiness to people. I was their leader. This responsibility felt enormous. It humbled me. I felt a great sense of duty to know my people and help them achieve their personal and professional goals. I had to love them and nurture them as if they were my own family. I’d listen intently when they spoke, pause and marvel over their successes and hear stories about their life. I had power but viewed it as the power of love and admiration of my people. They would accomplish amazing things.