Every so often the planet is graced with a leader no one sees coming, an individual who accomplishes great things. Terri  Bridenbecker, executive director of the Cayuga County Chamber of Commerce, was one such leader. Though its been nearly a year since her untimely death, I think of her often.  Terri was a leader with a natural talent that helped her thrive as a leader,  by always remembering to lead first with her heart, then with her head.  The lessons to be learned from Terri Bridenbecker’s successful and all too short leadership journey are many. Like Terri, you may be a leader no one sees coming. If you have it on your heart to be a leader go for it! Place yourself in situations that allow you to explore your capacity to lead. Move your heart’s desire to your head and strategically adopt an “act as if” approach to developing as a leader. Align your words, actions, and deeds with leadership expectations in your organization. Don’t hesitate to practice being a leader before formally becoming one. In time people will see your potential, and an opportunity will emerge.  When it does, take it. Finally, when you become a leader never, ever forget that leadership is about the heart first, then the head.

Terri Bridenbecker never, ever lost sight of this and it is what made her a successful leader. Thank you, Terri for finding the confidence and courage to follow your heart’s desire. It is my hope your leadership journey and legacy serve as inspiration for all those who follow in your footsteps.