Chapter 10: The Big Picture Mindset: A Leadership Perspective from John Maxwell

[Click here to watch/listen to the podcast episode]

[Click here to watch it on YouTube]

In his book High Road Leadership, John Maxwell explores principles that help leaders become more impactful and purposeful. Chapter 10, Live by the Bigger Picture, delves into a foundational concept of transformational leadership: the ability to see beyond personal ambitions and recognize a bigger purpose that connects us to those we lead. Maxwell argues that leaders are at their best when they aim to leave a legacy that surpasses their own interests. This chapter offers essential insights for leaders who wish to foster a lasting, positive impact.
Here are the key takeaways, actionable steps, and strategies for embracing a vision that elevates everyone involved.


Key Takeaways from "Live by the Bigger Picture"

1. Adopt a Long-Term Vision Leaders often face short-term pressures that can distract them from focusing on the bigger picture. John urges leaders to prioritize long-term goals and broader impacts over temporary wins. This approach fosters decisions that benefit organizations, teams, and society at large.
2. Align Personal and Organizational Values When leaders understand their own core values and align them with those of their organization, they create a sense of purpose that resonates with others. A leader’s purpose-driven actions inspire team members, encouraging them to connect their work to something meaningful.
3. Invest in People, Not Just Results John emphasizes that leaders who live by the bigger picture don’t view team members as mere tools for achieving results. Instead, they prioritize building relationships, nurturing growth, and helping others succeed. By focusing on people, leaders create a legacy of collaboration and empowerment.
4. Leave a Legacy The true impact of a leader is often measured by what remains after their departure. Leaders who keep the bigger picture in mind strive to build sustainable practices, systems, and a culture that thrives independently of them. Their legacy reflects their vision for a better, enduring future.
5. Shift from Control to Influence In this chapter, John advises leaders to let go of the need for control and nurture an environment where influence becomes the guiding force. This shift allows leaders to inspire rather than dictate, fostering a collaborative and autonomous team dynamic.

Action Steps for Leaders
1. Create a Vision Statement for Your Team Start by identifying what you hope to achieve together, both now and in the future. Engage your team in developing a vision statement that encapsulates the team’s immediate goals and the larger impact you collectively want to make. This serves as a constant reminder of the purpose that binds your efforts.
2. Encourage Team Members to Define Their “Why” Challenge your team to reflect on why they do the work they do. Help each individual identify personal motivations that align with the team’s vision. This creates a culture where members feel more connected to their role and the organization.
3. Invest Time in Leadership Development Developing future leaders is one of the most effective ways to ensure the longevity of your impact. Identify promising individuals on your team and invest in their growth, providing mentorship and opportunities for leadership. By empowering others, you’re creating a ripple effect of positive influence.
4. Celebrate Small Wins with the Bigger Picture in Mind Recognize and celebrate small achievements contributing to the larger vision. By linking day-to-day accomplishments with the bigger picture, you help reinforce a sense of purpose and keep the team motivated, even when challenges arise.
5. Practice the Art of Letting Go Instead of managing every detail, entrust your team with responsibilities that allow them to make decisions and take ownership. Gradually shift your focus from task management to outcome guidance. Your role becomes one of an advisor and supporter rather than a controller, fostering a team capable of sustaining itself.
6. Reflect on the Legacy You Wish to Leave Take time regularly to envision the legacy you want to build. Consider the values and principles you want to be remembered for, and let them guide your decisions and interactions. Write down what you hope people will say about your leadership long after you’re gone.


Embracing the Bigger Picture Mindset
Living by the bigger picture means recognizing that leadership is not just about success—it’s about significance. A leader’s influence becomes exponential when it transcends their personal ambition and connects with a greater purpose. As John explains, leaders who pursue a bigger-picture approach are less likely to be swayed by setbacks and more likely to inspire those around them to pursue something lasting.
Living by the bigger picture offers a refreshing, much-needed perspective in the modern world, where competition, stress, and personal gain can take precedence. Leaders who keep a long-term vision alive within their organizations create resilient, compassionate, and innovative environments.
By applying these insights and actions, leaders can elevate their approach, positively impacting everyone they interact with. Embracing the bigger picture transforms leadership from a role into a purpose, inspiring others to work not just for results but for meaning. It’s not only about what we accomplish but how we enable others to carry forward a legacy of excellence, growth, and purpose.

Bill Storm
PS. If you like today's message, here are four ways I can help you grow faster…

1. Speak at your next event.
2. Conduct a full or half-day leadership training workshop.
3. VIP Client: Executive-level 1:1 coaching experience.
4. Learn the system I use to build my brand and business on LinkedIn, based on my work with Tony Robbins and John Maxwell, and how you can use it to do the same.