The Power of Individual Leadership in Business

This essay is autogenerated from my x.com threads.

No one ever dedicated a monument to a committee—and there’s a reason for that. History shows us that real change and big accomplishments come from a single person owning the vision, taking responsibility, and driving relentlessly toward the goal. George Washington crossing the Delaware and Martin Luther King Jr. leading the civil rights movement aren’t remembered as “collective committees.” They’re revered as individual leaders who rallied teams behind them.

In our own organizations, we should embrace this principle. Relying too heavily on committees can blur accountability, diffuse responsibility, and slow down decisions. Instead, assign Areas of Responsibility (AORs) so each function or project has exactly one person in charge. This lines up with “Impeccable Agreements,” where commitments are clearly defined, and a single, accountable owner either delivers on time or proactively communicates any changes. When we operate with clarity—no obfuscation, one name to credit when it goes right and one name to call when it doesn’t—we move faster, innovate without hesitation, and rally our teams for greater impact.

At the end of the day, people follow people, not committees. If you want to see a statue with your name on it (at least metaphorically), don’t let indecision or obscured accountability stand in your way. Step forward, own your AOR, and lead. The team is there to support you, but the spark that lights the fire has to come from one focused and fearless leader—just like it always has.