One of the best bosses I ever had used to say that although he was the boss at work, he realized that at home, it was a different story. My wife keeps me centered, he admitted. She tells me that I may be important at work, but at home I’m just part of the family.

Likewise, a good friend of mine is so grounded that she prefers to be called Kaitlyn’s mom rather than addressed by her professional title: Doctor. At my sons school, there are at least four other moms I’ve met who are also MDs. However, these accomplished women all put the role of mom ahead of the titles they’ve earned. In fact, it was several years before I realized they were doctors in addition to being moms.

These moms and dads have their priorities straight. They know that the most important leadership role they have isn’t at the office, but at home.

As a leader, keeping yourself grounded and family focused will help keep you humble, likeable, and more in touch with your team. What matters most as a leader isn’t the title you hold, but rather how you use your position to benefit others. Your leadership will stand on its own.

–Sheri Staak