Leadership & Management

Steve Jobs didn’t outrun cancer, but he made one final leadership decision—naming Tim Cook as Apple’s next CEO. True leadership isn’t about holding power; it’s about preparing others to carry the vision forward. Leaders must mentor, train, and hand over with purpose, because “now” never lasts.

Leaders shouldn’t think for their teams. If you’re constantly stepping in, doing the work, or explaining each step, it’s either a clarity issue or a capability gap. Great leaders act like coaches—setting clear expectations, equipping their teams, and then stepping back. True leadership is about developing others, not doing their jobs for them.

After an earthquake forced Theo Lakkas’ family to live in a tent, he learned that gratitude and perspective can turn hardship into fuel for growth. Today, as EAG EMEA’s Director of Food and Beverage, Theo sees those struggles as the foundation for his passion and success. His story reminds us that true leadership begins with gratitude and the perspective to keep moving forward.

When George H. W. Bush announced Dan Quayle as his running mate in New Orleans, the VP candidate was nowhere to be found—stuck in the crowd with his family. The moment exposed a critical planning gap, but it didn’t stop the campaign from winning. Leadership isn’t about perfection—it’s about recovering, adapting, and moving forward when things go wrong.

Michael Jordan’s reflections in The Last Dance reveal timeless leadership lessons: challenge others, raise standards, and never ask more than you give. True winners lead by example, endure the cost of greatness, and pull others forward—even when it’s unpopular. Leadership isn’t about being liked; it’s about elevating your team. If you want to win, you must lead with fire, resilience, and unwavering commitment.

Leadership is influence, but influence only lasts when it’s built on trust. Great leaders keep promises, value people, and lead with integrity. This article explores how building trust in leadership creates lasting influence, inspires purpose-driven teams, and fuels long-term success.