When we talk about “climbing the ladder”, we usually assume an upward climb. It’s as though the climb to leadership is a big king-of-the-hill battle. The goal is to be on top.

But you know what happens when we assume…

Leaders know that climbing the ladder is, in fact, a climb downward on an inverted triangle. A climb that, with each step, requires greater service, responsibility, and giving. The further down you climb, the more is demanded of you.

We’re led to believe in a pyramid, where leaders are only served and supported by those “under” them, and in some organizations this is the case.

But in many cases, the trunk supports the branches, not the other way around.

If you aspire to leadership, get ready for the downward climb.