I know what you are thinking, and this is not it. We have all been in elevators. I have taken some elevators with all the ease and confidence in the world. However, I was in an elevator recently that left me more than wishing I had taken the stairs.

Elevators are convenient, easier on the body, and much quicker.

How wonderful would it be if we could take an elevator to the top of leadership? Think about it. Less stress on the mind and body. We would not have to go through the process of strategically putting one foot in front of the other. It would sure be more convenient.

I am sorry. It does not work this way: never has / never will.

It is not reaching the top quickly, or with the least amount of stress that will make us leaders. We are shaped by the experiences throughout the journey. We learn invaluable lessons to help us deal with the various issues facing leaders.

There are no quick and easy ways to the top. It takes work and the more diligence we exercise the greater our leadership.