What Leadership Is -- And What It Is Not Great leaders inspire and create meaningful, lasting opportunities and new ways of thinking. They believe in change. They have an impact on the future.

Like many roles in life and business, being a true leader is a calling. Either you're a great one, or you're not. Think of those who have changed the expected, like Picasso, Plato, Thelma and Louise, Socrates and Tom Brady.

Those are the ones who blaze new trails without fear, without worry and without a second thought to what other people think. They have a singular vision and a singular course. They dare to challenge ideas with a nimble flick of the throttle, changing directions as easily as batting an eye. They see things others do not. They take risks. They are entrepreneurs. Just like you. And if you doubt that fact, sit back and have a read.

Leadership is your contribution and your service to your company. It's your survival, and that of those you lead. It will be your legacy, and your company's legacy. It is what makes you great vs. what lets you fail or, worse, be average.