Sometimes, leadership finds us before we even realize we’re ready. This past week, I witnessed it firsthand as my wife, Nelli, stepped into a leadership role at a business conference—not by seeking it, but by naturally guiding a conversation, sharing insights, and empowering others.

True leadership isn’t about authority or titles; it’s about stepping forward, contributing, and creating space for others to do the same. Watching Nelli embrace this moment reinforced a powerful lesson: when we surround ourselves with the right people, opportunities to lead become clear.

The fear of failure often stems from the mistaken belief that its consequences are permanent. Yet, as Friedrich Nietzsche reminds us, "Those who dance alone are considered fools only by those who cannot hear the music." By embracing failure as a learning opportunity, leaders can foster innovation, cultivate psychological safety, and unlock their team’s full potential.