Raising Your Leadership Lid: Lessons from John C. Maxwell

Leadership isn’t about titles—it’s about influence. Whether leading a company, a team, or a community, our ability to inspire and guide others determines the impact we can make. John C. Maxwell’s The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership offers timeless wisdom on what separates great leaders from the rest. One of the most powerful lessons is The Law of the Lid, which states that our leadership ability acts as a lid on our success. If we want to grow—personally and professionally—we must first raise our leadership lid.

The Leadership Lid in Action

Think about organizations or teams you’ve been part of. Have you ever seen a business struggle because of a leader’s inability to adapt, communicate, or empower others? That’s the Law of the Lid at work. The potential of any organization is directly tied to the leadership capacity of those at the top.

On the flip side, the most successful leaders are lifelong learners. They invest in their personal growth, seek feedback, and surround themselves with people who challenge them to be better.

How to Raise Your Leadership Lid

Maxwell teaches that leadership is a journey, not a destination. Here are three ways to start raising your lid today:

• Commit to Continuous Growth – Read, learn, and invest in personal development. The best leaders never stop improving.
• Build Strong Relationships – Leadership is about people. The stronger your relationships, the greater your ability to influence and lead effectively.
• Lead with Integrity and Purpose – People follow leaders they trust. Stay true to your values and create a vision that inspires others to grow alongside you.

Leadership is more than a role—it’s a responsibility. What are you doing today to raise your leadership lid? Let’s grow together.