John Maxwell wrote his first edition of this book in 1993, and twenty-five years later in 2018 he updated it with this version, which has significantly more value thanks to his extra 25 years of experience in growing as one of the greatest authorities on leadership development today.

All of us have our circle of influence, whether we realize it or not, and the idea of developing the leader within you will be of great benefit to you whether you are a corporate leader, employee hoping to be promoted, a mother or member of your high school football team. What you say and do affects others, and hopefully you value creating positive change around you.

Maxwell devotes a chapter to each of these ideas about leadership and I will share a main thought from each one:

The Definition of Leadership: Influence The best investment in tomorrow is to develop your influence today

The Key to Leadership: Priorities You cannot manage time, only your choices

The Foundation of Leadership: Character Practice self-leadership and value people

The Ultimate Test of Leadership: Creating Positive Change People tend to resist change. Utilize his Plan Ahead system for implementing change

The Quickest Way to Gain Leadership: Problem Solving   Problems always introduce us to opportunities. Our decisions are often impacted by our proximity to the problem

The Extra Plus in Leadership: Attitude Disown helplessness and exceed expectations

The Heart of Leadership: Serving People Develop the hands and heart of a servant by asking yourself questions – how can I help? Am I serving well?

The Indispensable Quality of Leadership: Vision Good leaders see more and before others

The Price Tag of Leadership: Self-Discipline necessary for respect and sustainability

The Expansion of Leadership: Personal Growth  Growth means change and hope, and must be strategic

Maxwell does much to give detailed strategies for each of these keys to leadership, making this book worthwhile to add to your collection of professional books.

For more about Developing the Leader Within You, check out this video:

-Jan Jones