You may have read the book or caught the movie starring Mel Gibson titled “We Were Soldiers”. They both tell the story of Lt. Gen. Harold G. Moore. One of the great leadership lessons Lt. Gen. Harold G. Moore had was to always lead from the front – you lead by example, you demonstrate passion for your job and most importantly never ask someone to do something that you would not do. Lt. Gen. Harold G. Moore set an example for this team, leading his team onto the battlefield and ensuring he was the last one off.
As leaders we need to keep the same rule. Whether sacrificing work/life balance temporarily to meet a deadline, admitting that you made a mistake or having a difficult discussion with a team member, never ask someone to do something you would not do.