One of the key components of being a good leader is introspection. This episode explores the rippling effects of personal growth and how it can have a positive effect on the work environment.
MEET DAVID LEE
After graduating from college with a degree in biology, David hoped to rid the world of ailments and diseases. However, his job search landed him at Empire Candle Co. located in Kansas City, KS.
Empire Candle is one of the largest candle manufacturers in the United States, focusing mainly on container filled candles. Tuscany Candle is the largest and main brand that Empire produces in Kansas City. David is a part of the Operations team, overseeing Production, Supply Chain, Quality Assurance and Maintenance & Engineering.
Self-Improvement Journey
During the pandemic shutdown in 2020, David started reading more. As the pieces started falling in place, David became increasingly more concerned about self-improvement and bettering himself. He started asking himself questions, like, What can I control? How can I be more of a value, not just at Empire but also in my personal life.
“… I deeply feel that my ‘ah ha’ moment really was that if you take care of your people, then your people will take care of you.”
-David Lee
Leadership Is Not A Self-proclaimed Title
David believes that there has been a type of ripping effect related to his commitment to personal development and says that people can sense it when you’re in a leadership role. David explains that, “Leadership is not necessarily a self-proclaimed title. “Being a leader is something that your teammates -and the overall team of your company- [decide]. They’re the ones who decide if you’re a good leader. You can have ‘manager’ in your title, but ultimately leadership is a title, [it] is a role that it earned.”
David shares his formula for being a good person and expressing outward positive good behavior (even when the environment isn’t idea) as well a some of his favorite reads that’s helped him along his journey.
Connect with David
- David loves feedback, having conversations and he’s always trying to learn. If you need a sounding board, or just want to connect…connect with David on LinkedIn
- Connect with Heartland 180 to donate school supplies, meals, or other items to support disadvantaged youth
- Download David’s formula for being a good person and expressing outward positive good behavior
