Building a Leadership Community

Leadership is a team sport.

Whether you’re leading a household, a small business, a classroom or a global organization, the weight of leadership can feel isolating at times. The decisions you make, the challenges you face, the expectations you shoulder—these can be heavy burdens to carry alone.

But you don’t have to do it alone.

Building a community of peers, mentors and collaborators—a team beyond your immediate team—can be the difference between burnout and thriving. It’s about surrounding yourself with people who challenge you, inspire you and help you grow into the leader you’re striving to be.

Why Building a Community Matters

Collaboration sparks innovation. When leaders connect with other leaders, they gain fresh perspectives and new ideas. A simple conversation can lead to creative solutions you’d never discover on your own.

Mentorship fuels growth. Having mentors—or becoming one—creates space for mutual learning. Leaders who engage in mentorship are better equipped to navigate challenges, identify blind spots and accelerate personal and professional growth.

Connection fosters resilience. Leadership can be lonely, but it doesn’t have to be. Building connections with others in similar roles reminds you that you’re not alone. Sharing experiences, advice and encouragement strengthens your resilience and fuels your confidence.

A Broader Definition of Team

Your leadership community doesn’t have to look like a traditional team. Here are some key relationships to cultivate–

Peers. People walking a similar path who understand the nuances of your role. Whether it’s other parents, managers or entrepreneurs, peers can offer empathy, ideas and camaraderie.

Mentors. Those with more experience who can offer wisdom and perspective. Mentors help you see the big picture and navigate challenges with clarity.

Mentees. Leaders you can guide and support. Teaching others is a powerful way to reinforce your own learning and foster deeper connection.

Collaborators. Partners who bring complementary skills to the table. Working together on shared goals or projects can lead to greater impact than working alone.

Friends. Don’t underestimate the power of having people who can remind you to laugh, take breaks and enjoy the journey.

Power-Ups for Building Your Leadership Community

Host a coffee chat. Invite a few peers or mentors to connect over coffee, either virtually or in person. Use the time to discuss challenges, share advice or brainstorm ideas.

Join a mastermind. Look for or create a small group of leaders who meet regularly to share goals, offer support and hold each other accountable.

Seek out a mentor. Identify someone you admire and ask for their guidance. Be specific about what you’d like to learn and how you hope to grow.

Be a mentor. Offer your time and insights to someone earlier in their leadership journey. Helping others grow strengthens your own skills and fosters a sense of purpose.

Collaborate on a project. Team up with another leader on a shared initiative. Collaboration not only drives better results but also strengthens relationships.

Practice gratitude. Take time to acknowledge and thank the people who support and inspire you. A simple note of appreciation can deepen connections and encourage continued collaboration.

Leading for Greater Impact

Leadership is about growth–for you, your team and your impact. By building a community of peers, mentors and collaborators, you create a network of support that amplifies your impact and ensures you never have to lead alone.

As you think about the year ahead, ask yourself–Who’s on your broader leadership team?

And how can you build connections that help you—and those around you—flourish?

The Happy Leader Power Hour

Leadership isn’t meant to be a solo journey. The best leaders surround themselves with a trusted circle of mentors, peers and collaborators who challenge, inspire and support them.

That’s why I created the Happy Leader Power Hour—a space where leaders can connect, recharge and learn together. It’s a chance to step away from the daily grind and refuel with intention. During this time, you can expect–

Real Conversations. No fluff, just meaningful discussions on what it takes to thrive as a leader.

Actionable Insights. Practical strategies based on The Eight Pillars of Happiness to help you lead with confidence and joy.

Community Support. A network of leaders who get it, offering advice, encouragement, and fresh perspectives.

Leadership is better together. Join us on the third Tuesday of each month at the Happy Leader Power Hour. Register here!