The Candle and the Mirror

James R. Rector
Publisher, Profiles in Leadership Journal

Leadership is not one role. It is two. Some days, you are the candle, lighting the way when the path is dark. Other days, you are the mirror, reflecting the light of your team so they see their own brilliance.

Strong leaders know when to switch. In a crisis, people look for the candle. They want direction and courage. In calmer times, they need the mirror. They want recognition and confidence that their work matters.

Both roles build trust. A leader who insists on always being the candle burns out the team. A leader who only reflects never moves forward. The balance makes leadership durable.

At Home

Families know the same rhythm. Parents light the way in moments of decision, but they also reflect back the efforts of children, reminding them of strengths they may not see. A household that practices both roles teaches resilience and self-belief.

Your question: In your current season, does your team need your light, or your reflection?

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