We often grow up believing that leadership is about standing in the spotlight, showcasing extraordinary skills, and proving that we are the strongest or the smartest in the room. But the truth is, real leadership isn’t about dazzling people with your own brilliance.
As Justin Wright puts it beautifully:
“You don’t earn your team’s respect by showing off your superpowers. You earn it by helping them discover their own.”
Leadership Beyond the Cape
Think of your favorite superhero stories. The ones that stay with us aren’t always about a lone hero saving the day—they’re often about someone inspiring others to rise to their potential. The same applies in our workplaces. Teams don’t thrive under leaders who only display their own capabilities. They flourish when they’re empowered, trusted, and supported to find their own strengths.
Great leaders understand that:
Respect is earned, not demanded. It comes when team members feel valued and seen. Empowerment creates ownership. When people discover their own abilities, they take responsibility for results. Collaboration outshines competition. A culture of lifting each other up always produces stronger outcomes than one fueled by ego.
Shifting the Mindset
So, how do you transition from being the “hero” to being the “guide”?
Ask more questions than you give answers. Questions spark curiosity and help team members think for themselves. Celebrate progress, not just perfection. Every small win builds confidence. Create space for mistakes. Psychological safety allows people to experiment, fail, and grow. Spot hidden talents. Sometimes, people don’t realize what they’re capable of until someone else points it out.
The Ripple Effect
When leaders focus on helping others discover their superpowers, something magical happens. Teams become more resilient, more creative, and more motivated. Respect grows naturally—not because of titles or authority, but because of trust and shared success.
At the end of the day, the greatest superpower a leader can have is the ability to unlock the potential in others.
So maybe the real question is: Are you busy showing your powers, or are you helping your team discover theirs?
Kenrick Vaz 