James R. Rector
Publisher, Profiles in Leadership Journal

For centuries, people have gathered around campfires to share stories, exchange wisdom, and build community. The circle around the fire makes everyone equal. No one sits at the head. Everyone sees each other clearly.

Leadership can borrow from this ancient rhythm. A leader who creates campfire circles, spaces where everyone has a voice and where stories carry as much weight as data, unlocks trust and creativity.

This does not mean ignoring hierarchy. It means balancing authority with humanity. Teams that gather in circles listen differently, speak more freely, and carry forward decisions with more ownership.

At Home

Families benefit from circles, too. A dinner table without screens, a weekend fire pit, or even a few minutes of undistracted conversation can restore connection. Everyone sees each other, and everyone belongs.

Your question: Where can you create a circle this week that invites voices to be heard equally?

About the series: The 3-Minute Leader™ is a weekly micro-essay for emerging and promotable executives.

James Rector

James Rector

James Rector is the founder and publisher of Profiles in Leadership Journal, a publication that has honored over 2,500 leaders in its 27-year history. His work focuses on spotlighting individuals whose character, courage, and quiet consistency shape the future of leadership.