In today’s fast-paced world, where millennials now make up a large share of the workforce, leaders often wonder if younger generations need a different leadership approach. James Kouzes and Barry Posner—world-renowned leadership scholars—set out to answer that question by studying millennials across the globe. What they discovered is striking:
The timeless truths of leadership are universal.

These truths are as relevant today as they were 30 years ago, and they apply equally to new and seasoned leaders, regardless of age, industry, or geography. Here’s a summary of the 10 most essential leadership truths they identified, along with action steps and reflection questions to help you put them into practice today.

Leadership starts with the belief that you can have a positive impact. If you don’t believe you matter, it’s hard to inspire others. Action Steps:

• Reflect daily on one way you made a positive difference.
• Set a personal goal to encourage or help someone each week.
• Keep a “leadership impact” journal to track moments when your actions ripple outward.

People follow leaders they trust. Without credibility, your words carry little weight.
Action Steps:

• Ask for honest feedback on how people perceive you.
• Match your actions to your words—consistently.
• Identify one area where you can strengthen your follow-through.

People want to know what you stand for—and they want you to know what matters to them.
Action Steps:

• Clarify your top three personal and professional values.
• Have one-on-one conversations to understand your team’s values.
• Look for ways to align team goals with shared values.

Strong leaders imagine bold futures and help others see the way forward.
Action Steps:

• Dedicate time each month to envision where you/your team wish to be in 3 years.
• Host a “future brainstorm” session with your team.
• Review lessons from past successes and failures to inform your next steps.

You can’t Do It Alone. You may go faster by yourself but you'll go farther when your partner with others. Success happens with people, not above them.
Action Steps:

• Identify and acknowledge the key people who contribute to your success.
• Involve others early in decision-making and problem-solving.
• Cultivate an attitude of service toward your team’s growth and success.

Trust is the glue that holds teams together. Without it, influence crumbles.
Action Steps:

• Give trust before demanding it—delegate meaningfully.
• Be transparent, especially when things are uncertain.
• Admit mistakes openly and learn from them.

Growth happens when you push beyond the comfort zone.
Action Steps:

• Identify one area where you can push yourself or your team to improve.
• Treat setbacks as learning opportunities, not failures.
• Celebrate small wins that come from overcoming challenges.

Your example sets the standard. Hypocrisy erodes influence.
Action Steps:

• Examine where you need to better “walk the talk.”
• Make public commitments on key goals or values.
• Show up consistently, even when it’s inconvenient or difficult.

Great leaders are growth-minded. They are humble enough to know they can improve. They listen to the wisdom of others and are constantly curious.
Action Steps:
Invest in ongoing learning: read, take courses, or find a mentor.
Set regular improvement goals with clear milestones.
Ask for feedback regularly and apply it actively.

Love is the fuel of leadership. It's passion for your people, your work, and your mission that drives greatness.
Action Steps:

• Express appreciation and gratitude frequently.
• Reflect on why you love what you do—and share that passion.
• Find ways to infuse more joy and meaning into your daily leadership.