The 3 Things All Great Leaders Do Every Day

October 20, 2025•4 min read

The 3 Things All Great Leaders Do Every Day

One of the great privileges of my role is the opportunity to work alongside so many talented and dedicated leaders—people who show up every day to make a difference for students, staff, and our community. Over the years, I’ve learned that leadership isn’t about having the perfect plan or the right title. It’s about what we do—consistently—day in and day out.

In my experience, there are three things all great leaders make a priority every single day.

1. They Connect with People

The heart of leadership is people. Every great leader knows that trust and culture are built through meaningful connections. It’s the quick conversation in the hallway, the warm greeting at the door, or the moment you take to really listen.

When we lead with connection, we send a powerful message: I see you. I value you. I care about you. Those daily interactions build the foundation for everything else we hope to accomplish together.

2. They Communicate with Clarity and Purpose

Strong leadership requires clear and consistent communication. Great leaders understand the power of words—and the importance of making sure people know the “why” behind what we’re doing.

Clear communication creates alignment. It helps teams move forward with confidence and reduces the confusion that often fills the space where information is lacking. Every day, we have the chance to shape the narrative and keep our teams focused on what matters most.

3. They Choose to Lead with Courage

Leadership takes courage—especially when the decisions are tough, the path isn’t easy, or the answers aren’t clear. Great leaders step forward, even when it’s uncomfortable. They do what’s right, not what’s popular. I know some of my decisions aren't popular, but my leadership isn't about being popular - it's about doing the right thing.

Courage inspires others. It builds trust. It gives permission for those around us to lead boldly, too.

A Final Thought

Leadership isn’t built in the big moments alone—it’s shaped in the small, daily choices we make to connect, communicate, and lead with courage. These aren’t just habits; they’re commitments.

As leaders of leaders, we set the tone. When we model these three actions each day, we create the kind of culture where people feel valued, informed, and inspired to give their best.

👉 Connect. Communicate. Choose Courage.

If you would like me, or someone from our RLR Team, to speak or work with your school and/or school district, please contact us at www.randyrussell.org.

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Who's In Your Inner Circle?
RLR Leadership Consulting and The CORE Project

Think about the people closest to you. The ones you share ideas with, lean on for support, and let influence your decisions. That group—yourinner circle—shapes how you see yourself, the choices you make, and even the risks you’re willing to take.

Sometimes, those relationships give you energy and push you forward. Other times, they hold you back. That’s whyRLR Leadership ConsultingandThe CORE Projecthave teamed up to createYour Inner Circle—an opportunity to pause, reflect, and intentionally shape the connections that matter most.

In this experience, you’ll:

Identify who truly belongs in your circle
Learn how to set healthy boundaries when needed
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Because the truth is, leadership isn’t just about strategy or skills—it’s about people. And the people closest to you can either empower your growth or limit your potential.

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Your circle matters. Choose it wisely.

If you would like me, or someone from our RLR Team, to speak or work with your school and/or school district, please contact us atwww.randyrussell.org.