In the wake of global anxiety, fuelled by the well-known concerns portrayed unceasingly by media of all types, leaders, above all others, are required to rise and show that we can change the world right where we are.
Ordinary people are able to extraordinary things. This has been evidenced repeatedly - in disaster scenarios as well as in the daily efforts of individuals in their communities and neighbourhoods. "The world is moved along, not only by the mighty shoves of its heroes, but also by the aggregate of the tiny pushes of each honest worker." Helen Keller's words resonate with these actions, yet it is leaders who must play their vital part in ensuring those noble efforts achieve sustainable results, so that the good deeds of today, often at personal cost, embed positive change for tomorrow.
The world's heads of state will continue to meet, national and local governments plan their policies and programmes, CEOs focus on vision and results and parents consider their children's needs. In all of this, John Haggai's assertion that The first task of the leader is to keep hope alive is massively relevant. How many leaders today inspire that level of confidence in those for whom they steward the responsibility of leadership?
There is a palpable feeling that now is the time for greatness in leaders to emerge.
It will be evident in leaders who enable all their people to be heroes, and to change the world right where you are.