One way to define a leader is someone who understands what needs to be done, and gets it done. Another way to say this: a leader sets a goal, makes a plan to achieve it, and executes on that plan. 

A person doesn’t need a job title or power to become a leader. They take on the role of leader when they decide a goal is more important than their own personal preferences including their identity. Their goal might need the leader to exchange a quiet, relaxing, afternoon for their focus on an unexpected situation. 

In an early stage of a project, or during a transition, a leader might even volunteer their energy to start making progress or create an opportunity to achieve their goal. They focus their energy to create momentum that encourages collaborators—such as family, friends, and coworkers—to lead as well.

Collaborators bring leaders the difficult problems that couldn’t be solved. The options are often between bad and worse, and the leader needs to decide between them, or if there’s a way to carve out a third possibility. 

Things rarely ever go according to plan. A leader needs to decide when to stick with the plan, or to make a change. When everyone feels panic or upset, a leader needs to stay calm.

You may see a leader on a magazine cover or making a speech. While leadership looks sweet publicly, you’ll know you’re doing it when it tastes sour and bitter. 

You become a leader when you decide to lead. Understand what needs to be done, and get it done.

Leaders will always be in demand because the rest of us need them.