Innovation collapses the moment a leader needs the spotlight more than the solution. It’s a team sport — and the teams that play together usually win together.
You can use all the sports metaphors you want, but here’s the truth I’ve seen over and over: young people often get seduced by the limelight. Being the center of attention creates the illusion of importance, power, and validation — tapping into a deeply human desire to be admired.
With gray hair comes the realization that there are better, more lasting ways to be seen.
Experience teaches us that the most meaningful recognition comes from genuine connection, not performance. We thrive when we stop chasing applause and start sharing authentic moments. Belonging comes from being valued for who we are — not for the spotlight we stand in.
The most successful leaders I’ve known share the glory when things go right and take the heat when they don’t. That’s how it worked on every casino opening project I was part of — long, demanding stretches of work where leaders stayed close through the ups and downs. And when the ribbon cutting finally came, the owner always invited everyone onto the stage. Like a championship team lifting the trophy together, we made sure the moment belonged to all of us. As you coach and mentor young people, make this part of your repertoire.
If you’re already the leader, you don’t need more accolades — and they’ll mean far more to your team than they ever will to you. And here’s the real lesson: if you still feel you must have them, you’re not the leader you hoped to be. Think about that before you take the victory lap.
Eventually, we all become one of the old folks who realize every accomplishment was a team effort. Pass that knowledge on to those who look to you for guidance — and tell them to pass it on to their teams today.
Andrew Carnegie (1835 – 1919): Scottish-American industrialist and philanthropist.
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