“LEADERS are neither born nor made. Leaders are ‘summoned.” They are called into existence by circumstances, and those who rise to the occasion, are LEADERS.”
These are the words of book author Leonard Sweet in his book entitled “Summoned to Lead.”
In a world that is constantly evolving, the ability to lead effectively is more important than ever. But what truly defines a leader who inspires change, drives innovation, and fosters growth? It’s not simply about managing people or having a vision—it’s about seeing things differently, making decisions with clarity, and having the wisdom to discern the right path forward. To lead effectively, one must learn to “look at things, decide, and discern with new eyes.”
The power of a fresh perspective
Leadership often involves confronting the status quo and challenging existing norms. The first step toward meaningful leadership is seeing things as they are, without the filter of old assumptions or outdated strategies. Leaders who view their environment with “new eyes” approach challenges from a place of curiosity and open-mindedness. They don’t allow past experiences to cloud their judgment or hinder their capacity to innovate.
When leaders look at things with new eyes, they gain an advantage. They are more likely to identify untapped opportunities, recognize hidden strengths in their teams, and uncover potential threats that others might overlook. This fresh perspective is critical in an ever-changing world. Whether it’s navigating through a global crisis, responding to shifting market dynamics or managing a diverse team, the ability to look beyond the surface and question assumptions is what sets great leaders apart.
The art of decision-making
Once a leader has cultivated a new perspective, the next step is making decisions that propel the team or organization forward. Effective leaders don’t rush into decisions based on instinct alone. They process information carefully, evaluate the impact of their choices, and consider the long-term consequences. However, decision-making isn’t about being overly cautious or taking too long to act. It’s about striking the right balance—making decisions with confidence, but without losing sight of the bigger picture.
Leaders who make decisions with “new eyes” recognize that there’s often no one-size-fits-all solution. They understand that different circumstances require different approaches. They don’t allow biases, traditions, or external pressures to sway them into making decisions that aren’t in line with their core values or the long-term vision of the organization. By embracing a mindset of flexibility and adaptability, they can navigate complex problems and find creative solutions.
Discernment: The leader’s secret weapon
Discernment is perhaps the most underrated leadership skill. It’s the ability to perceive and understand situations deeply, often beyond what is immediately visible. Discernment allows a leader to distinguish between noise and meaningful insights, between short-term fixes and long-term solutions.
Leaders who can discern with new eyes have an uncanny ability to identify patterns, make sense of ambiguity, and anticipate outcomes that others might miss. They can read between the lines, recognize the unspoken challenges, and gauge the emotional currents running beneath the surface. This level of insight is what allows them to make decisions that are not only effective in the moment but also sustainable in the long run.
For instance, when managing a team, a leader with strong discernment can sense when morale is low, even if the team members are not vocal about it. Instead of ignoring these subtle signals, they act proactively to address the issue—whether through support, feedback, or resources. This level of attentiveness is what builds trust and loyalty within a team, as employees feel seen and understood.
Positive change through vision and action
To become the kind of leader who drives positive change, it’s not enough to have a fresh perspective or make sound decisions. A true leader must inspire others to follow, empowering them to take ownership of their roles and contribute meaningfully toward a common goal.
Leaders who look at things with new eyes see not only what is, but what could be. They possess a clear vision of the future, one that is inclusive, innovative, and impactful. But they also understand that change doesn’t happen by merely talking about it. They lead by example, demonstrating the values and behaviors they want to see in others. They foster a culture of collaboration, transparency, and accountability, which ultimately drives positive change throughout the organization.
Positive change is rooted in a collective effort, and a leader who can help others see things through new eyes can create a ripple effect. When team members feel empowered to contribute their insights, when they feel that their voices matter, they become co-creators of the change process. This collaborative approach results in more meaningful and lasting transformations.
One of the most profound aspects of leadership is the realization that it’s a continual journey. As the world changes, so must the leader. The practice of looking at things, deciding, and discerning with new eyes is not a one-time action, but an ongoing process. Effective leaders must constantly seek out new perspectives, refine their decision-making skills, and deepen their ability to discern. This commitment to growth helps them remain agile and responsive, ready to face whatever challenges arise.
Moreover, leadership isn’t about being perfect—it’s about being willing to learn, adapt, and evolve. The best leaders are those who can admit when they don’t know something, seek advice, and take ownership of their mistakes. They lead with humility and grace, always striving to do better while inspiring others to do the same.
When leaders view their world with curiosity and openness, they can lead with purpose, clarity, and authenticity. In doing so, they create lasting change that not only transforms organizations but also leaves a meaningful impact on the lives of those they lead.
