There is no single, correct way to lead. Successful leaders of all kinds have their own styles, methods and favored ways of leading others. But behind all of these methods, lie common traits and behaviors—TRUTH, TRUST + TENACITY—that make ordinary people leaders.
“I’ve spent the past four decades studying the philosophies and fundamentals of leadership and management. I hope that TRUTH, TRUST + TENACITY helps readers set a positive example in their own leadership learning journey,” says author Ritch K. Eich.
No matter the range of their command, all leaders show integrity and desire and have made huge differences in others’ lives. Here are three friends living in the Greater Ann Arbor Area who in their 60s continue to polish their leadership ability.
Today, Jeff Daniels, the actor, is back on stage with “Blackbird” opening for previews on February 5th, and says theater is more forgiving of older actors. “You just have to be really good at what you do,” he says. He jokingly curses youth, adding, “They don’t know as much as we do.”
“You go back to the theater because you’re truly appreciated there,” he says.
Daniels grew up in Chelsea, Michigan where he still lives with his wife. They also have an apartment in New York City.
The Michigan based Chelsea Milling Company founded by the Holmes family in 1901 is famous for its “JIFFY” mix’s that own 64% market share in retail prepared baking mixes. The current CEO and president of the company is Howard Samuel “Howdy” Holmes who was a racing car champion, author and entrepreneur before he rejoined this 112-year-old family business in 1987. Howdy Holmes and Jeff Daniels grew up together and participated in their fathers’ business in Chelsea, MI.
Holmes states, “In large, hierarchical organizations CEOs are often too removed from their own people.” By contrast in flatter organizations CEOs are more in touch with their associates, more approachable, and more available.”
David Brandon grew up in South Lyon, MI where he played football in high school and later at the University of Michigan. After graduation, he led a regional advertising company and then replaced the founder of Domino’s Pizza, as CEO, in Ann Arbor, MI. Brandon is currently chairman and CEO of Toys “R” Us, Inc. after working as Director of Athletics at the University of Michigan.
Brandon says, “Just because someone is in a leadership position doesn’t mean they are a true leader. By definition, a true leader won’t put his or her personal goals ahead of building trust and a strong, positive relationship with members of the team. Finger-pointing and blaming is not what true leaders do…”
There is a great divide between managing/supervising and leading. Leaders always do what they say they will do, take responsibility, and follow through. They understand that their role is bigger than themselves.
The best leaders understand the difference between leading and being in charge. They disdain self-promotion and publicity stunts. They consistently act in the best interests of their staff or team. They work tirelessly to keep developing their own leadership abilities.
No matter the range of their command, all leaders show great integrity and desire and have made huge differences in others’ lives.
Sources: Ritch K. Eich: Truth, Trust + Tenacity: How Ordinary People Become Extraordinary Leaders and The Wall Street Journal, January 23, 2016