Leaders are dealers in hope.

Don’t confuse opportunity with leadership. Others control many of our opportunities, so that shouldn’t be our concern. We control our readiness.

Many people in the world see events as they are; leaders are different in that they see things that could be. And the future they see is always a better version of the present. We believe we can make a difference; we think we can make the world, or at least our part of it, better. Leaders are generally more optimistic than nonleaders.

Believe in your ability to create the future. That’s what leaders do-that is our job. Understand reality but never be imprisoned by it. Reality is a moment in time. The future has not yet been written-it is written by leaders.

Ninety percent of our success as leaders will be determined by what’s below the waterline. It’s our leadership character that ultimately drives what we do, and why. It is a true reflection of who we really are as human beings.

Leadership character is the primary driver of your success as a leader.” “What about skills?” Blake asked. “They are important, but the lack of skills is not what derails most leaders – skills are too easy to learn. It is ultimately leadership character that determines our opportunity for influence and impact.

Expecting the best is not about always being right. It is about a belief in yourself and in your team.

When you expect the best from people, you will often see more in them than they see in themselves. The good news is that people generally rise to the level of expectations placed on them.

When leaders lead well, not everyone is going to be happy.

My challenge to you: Get ready to lead and opportunities to lead will not be your problem.