In her work, M. Teresa Lawrence presents a unique and accessible view of leadership that challenges conventional definitions. Instead of viewing leadership as a rare trait exclusive to those in positions of power, Teresa defines it as a skill that can be developed by anyone. Her approach to leadership is grounded in practicality and self-awareness, emphasizing that leadership is not just about external actions, but about internal development. This article will explore key aspects of Teresa’s leadership philosophy, examining the ideas of movement, authenticity, and the role of fear in leadership.
Leadership as Movement
A cornerstone of Teresa’s leadership philosophy is the concept of movement. Leadership, according to Teresa, is not about waiting for the perfect opportunity or having everything fall into place. Instead, it is about taking action, no matter how small, and letting that action propel progress. Teresa likens this to the concept of momentum in business—once a person takes the first step toward their goal, the movement becomes self-sustaining, creating opportunities for further growth and development.
This concept encourages leaders to focus on progress, not perfection. Many people fail to reach their goals not because they lack the ability or ambition, but because they hesitate to take the first step out of fear or uncertainty. Teresa’s approach counters this hesitation, suggesting that even small, imperfect actions can have a compounding effect. As leaders move forward, they learn from their mistakes, adjust their strategies, and continue their journey toward success.
What makes Teresa’s view of leadership particularly relatable is her emphasis on continuous action. She does not present leadership as a single event or achievement but as a process. This makes her philosophy accessible to anyone, regardless of their stage in their professional journey. Whether someone is leading a small team, running a startup, or navigating personal development, the principle remains the same: leadership is about taking consistent action and maintaining momentum, even when the path is unclear.
The Role of Authenticity in Leadership
Another crucial element in Teresa’s leadership framework is authenticity. For Teresa, effective leadership is rooted in staying true to one’s values and beliefs. This authenticity is essential for building trust with others and creating an environment where people feel comfortable contributing their best work. Teresa suggests that leadership is not about fitting into an idealized image of what a leader should be but about embracing one’s unique qualities and using them to inspire and guide others.
This focus on authenticity challenges the traditional view of leadership, which often emphasizes traits such as assertiveness, confidence, or the ability to project authority. While those qualities can certainly play a role in leadership, Teresa believes that true leadership comes from a deeper place—an internal alignment with one’s core values. When leaders are authentic, they create a sense of trust and integrity that is difficult to achieve through artificial posturing. This trust is what allows leaders to motivate others and foster collaboration, which is critical to achieving collective goals.
For Teresa, authenticity is not just about being open with others but also about being self-aware. Leaders who are attuned to their own strengths, weaknesses, and values are better positioned to make informed decisions, inspire others, and lead with confidence. Authenticity requires a level of introspection and vulnerability, but it is this honesty that allows leaders to foster deeper, more meaningful connections with their teams or communities.
Confronting Fear and Embracing the Unknown
Fear is a significant barrier to effective leadership, and Teresa recognizes that it can hold individuals back from taking action. In her work, she discusses how fear often paralyzes people, preventing them from reaching their potential. However, she also suggests that fear can be confronted and managed through experience and self-awareness.
One of Teresa’s key messages is that leadership involves mastering one’s emotions and learning to make decisions despite fear. Drawing on her personal experience, she explains how, after being held at gunpoint in an elevator, she was able to remain composed and later desensitize herself to the fear by repeatedly riding the same elevator. This personal story illustrates how facing fear head-on can gradually diminish its power. For Teresa, leadership is not about avoiding fear but learning to act despite it, using fear as a tool for growth rather than something that holds one back.
This concept of fear is particularly relevant in today’s fast-paced, high-pressure work environments. Leaders often face situations where they must make difficult decisions or lead their teams through uncertainty. By embracing fear and using it as a signal for action, Teresa suggests that leaders can develop the resilience necessary to navigate these challenges. The key to overcoming fear, she argues, is to focus on action rather than the potential consequences of failure.
Leadership and Play: Creativity as a Leadership Tool
A distinctive aspect of Teresa’s leadership philosophy is her emphasis on play. In a business environment where leadership is often associated with rigidity and control, Teresa advocates for a more creative and imaginative approach. She believes that engaging with the world playfully—allowing room for exploration, experimentation, and risk-taking—can lead to innovative solutions and stronger relationships.
The leadership of play is not about acting irresponsibly or without purpose. Instead, it is about approaching leadership with curiosity and a willingness to discover new possibilities. Teresa encourages leaders to embrace creativity, as it is through play and experimentation that individuals are more likely to stumble upon breakthrough ideas or ways to overcome obstacles. This mindset of play can foster a culture of innovation and collaboration, where team members feel empowered to share their ideas and contribute to the collective success of the organization.
While the idea of leadership through play may seem unconventional, Teresa’s philosophy encourages leaders to challenge traditional structures and explore new avenues for growth. By fostering an environment where play and creativity are encouraged, leaders can unlock the full potential of their teams.
A Comprehensive and Accessible Approach to Leadership
Teresa’s concept of leadership is rooted in practicality, self-awareness, and authenticity. Her approach offers a refreshing alternative to traditional leadership models, emphasizing that leadership is not about adhering to a set of predefined traits but about taking consistent action, embracing one’s true self, and navigating fear with courage. The concept of leadership as movement, along with the importance of play and authenticity, provides a well-rounded framework for anyone seeking to lead more effectively.
What stands out in Teresa’s philosophy is its accessibility. Rather than presenting leadership as a trait reserved for a select few, she frames it as a skill that can be developed by anyone, at any stage in their journey. For those looking to enhance their leadership abilities, Teresa’s focus on action, self-awareness, and creativity offers a clear and practical guide to personal and professional growth.
