Great leaders are like sponges; they soak up as much as they can from their leaders.

Early in my leadership journey, I was fortunate to be surrounded by leaders who poured into my life, but I learned it was up to me to be available for what they had to offer. I remember a critical meeting held by the organization I was with at the time. Attendance was mandatory that day, but the timing didn’t fit into my already overloaded schedule, which was filled with other meetings and preparations for a large event.

Reluctantly, I slipped away from my event planning duties to attend the company meeting. I spent the entire time sneaking glances at my watch and thinking about my other responsibilities, anxious to get back to what I had been doing before.

Finally, the meeting ended, and  I darted out the back door after saying my goodbyes and quickly shaking hands. As I strode down the hallway, the leader of the organization, who had facilitated the meeting, caught up with me and put his arm around my shoulder.

He smiled at me and said, “John, I know you are busy and working very hard right now, but I want you to know that when you come to a meeting, I want your mind and heart present. I saw you watching your clock and keeping your head down, disengaged. These meetings are vital to our company moving forward, and you are an example to everyone else in that room. I need you alert next time because you have too much to offer.” Dan could have just corrected me and moved on, but he continued by taking the time to identify the strengths and talents he saw in me and to affirm the positive impact I was having on the organization. “Keep up the good work!” he encouraged as we parted ways.

I will never forget that moment. At first, I was embarrassed. Then, I started to mentally defend myself, saying that he didn’t know how busy I really was. But, as he continued, I realized he was right to call me out. From that day on, I decided that,  wherever I am, I will do all I can to be fully present in the moment. Because Dan took the time to both correct and encourage me, and I was able to open myself up to receive his correction, I became a better leader moving forward.

We need to receive correction and instruction from our leaders humbly. If your superiors consistently feel frustrated that you do not listen to them, you will lose opportunities from them. By remaining attentive to them, you can pick up great tips from your leaders on a regular basis, both by watching what they do and listening to what they say. Not only can you learn what to do, but you can also learn what not to do; both will accelerate your success tremendously. Be committed to learning and growth as you serve under leadership. If a person can’t be led they aren’t fit to lead.