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The topic of leadership fascinates me. But I believe many of us have a closed opinion of who our leaders are.
In my latest blog series, I speak to people who I consider to be ‘everyday leaders’.
These people may not have ‘leadership’ in their role or title, but they demonstrate leadership in their everyday life. The point is that we all lead in our own way. I want to uncover people who do this particularly well and tell their stories in the hope of inspiring others to engage with and harness their inner leader.
 |
Leena is a content creator, who has worked in the people and culture space within organisations for over 15 years. During lockdown she took what she knew and applied it to Instagram to create a space to express herself but also to be a role model to her two young daughters. She posts about everyday life but, importantly, leans into taboo subjects, such as arranged marriages, body image and masturbation, in a respectful and honest way. |
How would you describe yourself?
I have lots of ‘titles’ in life – mum, daughter, aunt, friend, wife – but I am myself and that’s important to me.
Relationships are everything. I’m an only child which is perhaps why when I connect, it’s for life. Relationships help you to grow. They are a powerful part of life.
How would you describe everyday leadership?
To me, everyday leadership is about being yourself but creating an environment where people feel empowered and valued. One of my best managers was there if you needed her, she had your back, but she never gave you the answer. Sometimes this can feel frustrating but, with hindsight, I learnt so much. A good leader will always bring out the best in people.
What inspired you to get super active on Instagram?
Just before the pandemic kicked in, I left the job and company I was working at. Obviously with no idea about what was about to unfold. The pandemic and home schooling had started to become reality and because the kids and my family needed me in so many more ways than usual, I felt I was losing myself. I wanted to do something for me and that’s what Instagram gave me. I started connecting with people and realised it was something I loved. Writing about my life made me feel better.
What has it taught you?
I’ve learned that, in the past, our family pictures didn’t include me because I was always behind the camera. It was my daughter noticing this and commenting that made me realise I didn’t want her to do the same. Instagram means more selfies and allows me to capture myself in a positive and empowering way.
You courageously tackle taboo topics on Instagram. I love that you do this, and you push boundaries. Whats your motivation?
I know social media gets a bad press and can be very negative but our kids aren’t going to have a choice as to whether it’s part of their life. It will be integral to everything they do.
So they’re my motivation: my girls.
I want them to grow up knowing that they can talk to me about anything. My culture is one where not much is discussed. I learnt about boys, sex and growing up from my friends. I want my girls to speak to me but also know they are allowed to have opinions. Everyone can have different opinions without being wrong, but everyone has a right to be heard.
Have you changed your opinion on any topics because of the discussions you’ve had?
There have been times where I’ve posted something, and people message me and ask something that makes me think twice.
I write from my own experience so can only comment on my own perspective but that doesn’t mean other opinions are excluded. Posting and the conversation that follows help me to learn.
For example, I’ve realised it’s ok that you don’t know what you don’t know. It’s not ignorance, no one can know everything, but the information is there to find if you are interested.
However, remember it is only one person’s opinion. Take the topic of arranged marriage. It’s prevalent in my family so it’s normal for me – even though I had the choice of who I married. I want my girls to learn the traditions and the culture but be aware of what those things mean in today’s world. Maybe we know more now and therefore things might need to change. But we won’t know this until we share thoughts and opinions. I feel like I’ve done something worthwhile if I simply stimulate conversations between people.
What is a topic you’ve felt concerned about posting but have gone ahead with anyway?
I do a lot of ‘ask me anything’ type posts. Often people ask me about masturbation and whether it’s healthy. I’m no expert but I felt that I should address it because it’s clearly on people’s minds.
I wasn’t sure how or what to say and I waited a long time before it felt right.
I have family and in-laws following me and I’m aware that, while I challenge these taboos, I need to be ready to own my opinions and be proud. I need to make sure there’s not conflict there for me.
Body positivity is another important conversation to have. I’m very aware of this with my girls who have been aware of their body shape since as young as 7. I’m still conscious of my body in my 40s. We are very quick to judge people even though there’s no normal here – there’s not even an average.
Domestic violence is another topic I don’t yet feel I’ve done justice. It has been present in my past and it’s so hard. I’m not ready to share that yet but I hope to one day.
You’re now two years into your journey. How do you feel about it and where do you see it going?
I never set out to do anything with it, it was a space I created so I could share my voice. It still amazes me that so many people engage and comment. I’ve made a good circle of connections that I’m proud of – I’ve also blocked a good number of trolls – but I’m ok with managing that. I’m not selling anything, it’s just my space so I can use it as I see fit. It’s rewarding when that results in engagement and shared discussions.
I want to try to keep it natural and post whatever comes to mind that day. I don’t pre-plan, I wait until something triggers a post and it’s important this remains my approach because it never feels like a chore. I enjoy it and that’s what’s important for me. There’s no pressure and, if that ever changes, I will probably stop posting as that’s not the point.
Who is a great leader that inspires you and why?
My mum has been my role model because, despite hardships, she’s carried on and given me what I need. I want to do the same for my girls.
A previous manager at British Gas, Kirstie, is another. She made me feel empowered and, although that was nearly 20 years ago, I still think of her because she shaped me and there’s lots of what I learnt from her still in me.
Another amazing leader is Richard Branson. I’ve read the story of his early days in business and was amazed. Even though he might be a controversial figure and others might disagree, I feel he has a lot to offer. He’s not perfect, he’s human but I can see great leadership traits in him.
Do you have a tip or piece of advice about leadership?
Bring out the best in people.
It’s so important to understand different people and recognise their differences. I’ve always been passionate about employee engagement in my day job, and for me, people are important. As a leader, you need to make sure they feel valued.
Do you have any resources that are your leadership learning go-to?
I would say that different books inspire me for different things. I’m the same with people. I have a go-to person for different issues and needs. I’ve read lots of self-development books and find them all useful.
If I could recommend someone to follow on Instagram, it would be someone REAL. I follow a couple of very everyday people who will engage with me and that’s so nice because it means you build a relationship with them. Following celebrities is one thing but can we really identify with them or them with us? Is what we are seeing real and constructive for us?
Finally, what’s your favourite mantra or quote?
You are enough. It’s just simple and true. I say it to my girls all the time. You are enough.
You can find and follow Leena on Instagram at @leena.patel3
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The topic of leadership fascinates me. But I believe many of us have a closed opinion of who our leaders are.
In my latest blog series, I speak to people who I consider to be ‘everyday leaders’.
These people may not have ‘leadership’ in their role or title, but they demonstrate leadership in their everyday life. The point is that we all lead in our own way. I want to uncover people who do this particularly well and tell their stories in the hope of inspiring others to engage with and harness their inner leader.
|
Leena is a content creator, who has worked in the people and culture space within organisations for over 15 years. During lockdown she took what she knew and applied it to Instagram to create a space to express herself but also to be a role model to her two young daughters.
She posts about everyday life but, importantly, leans into taboo subjects, such as arranged marriages, body image and masturbation, in a respectful and honest way.
How would you describe yourself?
I have lots of ‘titles’ in life – mum, daughter, aunt, friend, wife – but I am myself and that’s important to me.
Relationships are everything. I’m an only child which is perhaps why when I connect, it’s for life. Relationships help you to grow. They are a powerful part of life.
How would you describe everyday leadership?
To me, everyday leadership is about being yourself but creating an environment where people feel empowered and valued. One of my best managers was there if you needed her, she had your back, but she never gave you the answer. Sometimes this can feel frustrating but, with hindsight, I learnt so much. A good leader will always bring out the best in people.
What inspired you to get super active on Instagram?
Just before the pandemic kicked in, I left the job and company I was working at. Obviously with no idea about what was about to unfold. The pandemic and home schooling had started to become reality and because the kids and my family needed me in so many more ways than usual, I felt I was losing myself. I wanted to do something for me and that’s what Instagram gave me. I started connecting with people and realised it was something I loved. Writing about my life made me feel better.
What has it taught you?
I’ve learned that, in the past, our family pictures didn’t include me because I was always behind the camera. It was my daughter noticing this and commenting that made me realise I didn’t want her to do the same. Instagram means more selfies and allows me to capture myself in a positive and empowering way.
You courageously tackle taboo topics on Instagram. I love that you do this, and you push boundaries. Whats your motivation?
I know social media gets a bad press and can be very negative but our kids aren’t going to have a choice as to whether it’s part of their life. It will be integral to everything they do.
So they’re my motivation: my girls.
I want them to grow up knowing that they can talk to me about anything. My culture is one where not much is discussed. I learnt about boys, sex and growing up from my friends. I want my girls to speak to me but also know they are allowed to have opinions. Everyone can have different opinions without being wrong, but everyone has a right to be heard.
Have you changed your opinion on any topics because of the discussions you’ve had?
There have been times where I’ve posted something, and people message me and ask something that makes me think twice.
I write from my own experience so can only comment on my own perspective but that doesn’t mean other opinions are excluded. Posting and the conversation that follows help me to learn.
For example, I’ve realised it’s ok that you don’t know what you don’t know. It’s not ignorance, no one can know everything, but the information is there to find if you are interested.
However, remember it is only one person’s opinion. Take the topic of arranged marriage. It’s prevalent in my family so it’s normal for me – even though I had the choice of who I married. I want my girls to learn the traditions and the culture but be aware of what those things mean in today’s world. Maybe we know more now and therefore things might need to change. But we won’t know this until we share thoughts and opinions. I feel like I’ve done something worthwhile if I simply stimulate conversations between people.
What is a topic you’ve felt concerned about posting but have gone ahead with anyway?
I do a lot of ‘ask me anything’ type posts. Often people ask me about masturbation and whether it’s healthy. I’m no expert but I felt that I should address it because it’s clearly on people’s minds.
I wasn’t sure how or what to say and I waited a long time before it felt right.
I have family and in-laws following me and I’m aware that, while I challenge these taboos, I need to be ready to own my opinions and be proud. I need to make sure there’s not conflict there for me.
Body positivity is another important conversation to have. I’m very aware of this with my girls who have been aware of their body shape since as young as 7. I’m still conscious of my body in my 40s. We are very quick to judge people even though there’s no normal here – there’s not even an average.
Domestic violence is another topic I don’t yet feel I’ve done justice. It has been present in my past and it’s so hard. I’m not ready to share that yet but I hope to one day.
You’re now two years into your journey. How do you feel about it and where do you see it going?
I never set out to do anything with it, it was a space I created so I could share my voice. It still amazes me that so many people engage and comment. I’ve made a good circle of connections that I’m proud of – I’ve also blocked a good number of trolls – but I’m ok with managing that. I’m not selling anything, it’s just my space so I can use it as I see fit. It’s rewarding when that results in engagement and shared discussions.
I want to try to keep it natural and post whatever comes to mind that day. I don’t pre-plan, I wait until something triggers a post and it’s important this remains my approach because it never feels like a chore. I enjoy it and that’s what’s important for me. There’s no pressure and, if that ever changes, I will probably stop posting as that’s not the point.
Who is a great leader that inspires you and why?
My mum has been my role model because, despite hardships, she’s carried on and given me what I need. I want to do the same for my girls.
A previous manager at British Gas, Kirstie, is another. She made me feel empowered and, although that was nearly 20 years ago, I still think of her because she shaped me and there’s lots of what I learnt from her still in me.
Another amazing leader is Richard Branson. I’ve read the story of his early days in business and was amazed. Even though he might be a controversial figure and others might disagree, I feel he has a lot to offer. He’s not perfect, he’s human but I can see great leadership traits in him.
Do you have a tip or piece of advice about leadership?
Bring out the best in people.
It’s so important to understand different people and recognise their differences. I’ve always been passionate about employee engagement in my day job, and for me, people are important. As a leader, you need to make sure they feel valued.
Do you have any resources that are your leadership learning go-to?
I would say that different books inspire me for different things. I’m the same with people. I have a go-to person for different issues and needs. I’ve read lots of self-development books and find them all useful.
If I could recommend someone to follow on Instagram, it would be someone REAL. I follow a couple of very everyday people who will engage with me and that’s so nice because it means you build a relationship with them. Following celebrities is one thing but can we really identify with them or them with us? Is what we are seeing real and constructive for us?
Finally, what’s your favourite mantra or quote?
You are enough. It’s just simple and true. I say it to my girls all the time. You are enough.
You can find and follow Leena on Instagram at @leena.patel3 or click on the instagram link below
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The topic of leadership fascinates me. But I believe many of us have a closed opinion of who our leaders are.
In my latest blog series, I speak to people who I consider to be ‘everyday leaders’.
These people may not have ‘leadership’ in their role or title, but they demonstrate leadership in their everyday life. The point is that we all lead in our own way. I want to uncover people who do this particularly well and tell their stories in the hope of inspiring others to engage with and harness their inner leader.
 |
Leena is a content creator, who has worked in the people and culture space within organisations for over 15 years. During lockdown she took what she knew and applied it to Instagram to create a space to express herself but also to be a role model to her two young daughters. She posts about everyday life but, importantly, leans into taboo subjects, such as arranged marriages, body image and masturbation, in a respectful and honest way. |
How would you describe yourself?
I have lots of ‘titles’ in life – mum, daughter, aunt, friend, wife – but I am myself and that’s important to me.
Relationships are everything. I’m an only child which is perhaps why when I connect, it’s for life. Relationships help you to grow. They are a powerful part of life.
How would you describe everyday leadership?
To me, everyday leadership is about being yourself but creating an environment where people feel empowered and valued. One of my best managers was there if you needed her, she had your back, but she never gave you the answer. Sometimes this can feel frustrating but, with hindsight, I learnt so much. A good leader will always bring out the best in people.
What inspired you to get super active on Instagram?
Just before the pandemic kicked in, I left the job and company I was working at. Obviously with no idea about what was about to unfold. The pandemic and home schooling had started to become reality and because the kids and my family needed me in so many more ways than usual, I felt I was losing myself. I wanted to do something for me and that’s what Instagram gave me. I started connecting with people and realised it was something I loved. Writing about my life made me feel better.
What has it taught you?
I’ve learned that, in the past, our family pictures didn’t include me because I was always behind the camera. It was my daughter noticing this and commenting that made me realise I didn’t want her to do the same. Instagram means more selfies and allows me to capture myself in a positive and empowering way.
You courageously tackle taboo topics on Instagram. I love that you do this, and you push boundaries. Whats your motivation?
I know social media gets a bad press and can be very negative but our kids aren’t going to have a choice as to whether it’s part of their life. It will be integral to everything they do.
So they’re my motivation: my girls.
I want them to grow up knowing that they can talk to me about anything. My culture is one where not much is discussed. I learnt about boys, sex and growing up from my friends. I want my girls to speak to me but also know they are allowed to have opinions. Everyone can have different opinions without being wrong, but everyone has a right to be heard.
Have you changed your opinion on any topics because of the discussions you’ve had?
There have been times where I’ve posted something, and people message me and ask something that makes me think twice.
I write from my own experience so can only comment on my own perspective but that doesn’t mean other opinions are excluded. Posting and the conversation that follows help me to learn.
For example, I’ve realised it’s ok that you don’t know what you don’t know. It’s not ignorance, no one can know everything, but the information is there to find if you are interested.
However, remember it is only one person’s opinion. Take the topic of arranged marriage. It’s prevalent in my family so it’s normal for me – even though I had the choice of who I married. I want my girls to learn the traditions and the culture but be aware of what those things mean in today’s world. Maybe we know more now and therefore things might need to change. But we won’t know this until we share thoughts and opinions. I feel like I’ve done something worthwhile if I simply stimulate conversations between people.
What is a topic you’ve felt concerned about posting but have gone ahead with anyway?
I do a lot of ‘ask me anything’ type posts. Often people ask me about masturbation and whether it’s healthy. I’m no expert but I felt that I should address it because it’s clearly on people’s minds.
I wasn’t sure how or what to say and I waited a long time before it felt right.
I have family and in-laws following me and I’m aware that, while I challenge these taboos, I need to be ready to own my opinions and be proud. I need to make sure there’s not conflict there for me.
Body positivity is another important conversation to have. I’m very aware of this with my girls who have been aware of their body shape since as young as 7. I’m still conscious of my body in my 40s. We are very quick to judge people even though there’s no normal here – there’s not even an average.
Domestic violence is another topic I don’t yet feel I’ve done justice. It has been present in my past and it’s so hard. I’m not ready to share that yet but I hope to one day.
You’re now two years into your journey. How do you feel about it and where do you see it going?
I never set out to do anything with it, it was a space I created so I could share my voice. It still amazes me that so many people engage and comment. I’ve made a good circle of connections that I’m proud of – I’ve also blocked a good number of trolls – but I’m ok with managing that. I’m not selling anything, it’s just my space so I can use it as I see fit. It’s rewarding when that results in engagement and shared discussions.
I want to try to keep it natural and post whatever comes to mind that day. I don’t pre-plan, I wait until something triggers a post and it’s important this remains my approach because it never feels like a chore. I enjoy it and that’s what’s important for me. There’s no pressure and, if that ever changes, I will probably stop posting as that’s not the point.
Who is a great leader that inspires you and why?
My mum has been my role model because, despite hardships, she’s carried on and given me what I need. I want to do the same for my girls.
A previous manager at British Gas, Kirstie, is another. She made me feel empowered and, although that was nearly 20 years ago, I still think of her because she shaped me and there’s lots of what I learnt from her still in me.
Another amazing leader is Richard Branson. I’ve read the story of his early days in business and was amazed. Even though he might be a controversial figure and others might disagree, I feel he has a lot to offer. He’s not perfect, he’s human but I can see great leadership traits in him.
Do you have a tip or piece of advice about leadership?
Bring out the best in people.
It’s so important to understand different people and recognise their differences. I’ve always been passionate about employee engagement in my day job, and for me, people are important. As a leader, you need to make sure they feel valued.
Do you have any resources that are your leadership learning go-to?
I would say that different books inspire me for different things. I’m the same with people. I have a go-to person for different issues and needs. I’ve read lots of self-development books and find them all useful.
If I could recommend someone to follow on Instagram, it would be someone REAL. I follow a couple of very everyday people who will engage with me and that’s so nice because it means you build a relationship with them. Following celebrities is one thing but can we really identify with them or them with us? Is what we are seeing real and constructive for us?
Finally, what’s your favourite mantra or quote?
You are enough. It’s just simple and true. I say it to my girls all the time. You are enough.
You can find and follow Leena on Instagram at @leena.patel3
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