A few months ago, I attended the IFEMA conference in Madrid, representing my company, Astra Via Tours. It was an incredible opportunity to network and meet industry professionals. During one of these encounters, I was introduced to a confident business executive who specialized in business tourism. As we exchanged pleasantries, he asked me a simple yet profound question: “Are you the CEO?”
I stuttered.
For a moment, I was unsure of how to respond. The title “CEO” felt too grand, too official for my small business. I thought of powerhouse leaders like Indra Nooyi—visionary female CEOs who had built empires. Compared to them, could I really call myself a CEO?
After a brief pause, I finally said, “Yes,” but I looked down as I spoke. We shook hands, exchanged business cards, and moved on. But that moment lingered in my mind for the rest of the day—and even now, it remains etched in my memory.
Why didn’t I take ownership of the business I had built? Why did I hesitate to acknowledge my own leadership?
Upon reflection, I realized that this is something many entrepreneurs and individuals struggle with. We downplay our achievements, comparing ourselves to others and feeling like we haven’t “earned” our titles. Sometimes, we shy away from responsibility because ownership means accountability. But as a wise man once said, “No one is going to save you.” If you don’t step up and claim your role, who will?
That day, I made a resolution: I will never hesitate to own my leadership. True leadership begins the moment you take charge, not just in title but in mindset. Once you embrace your role, you become emboldened to take steps—some in the right direction, some in the wrong—but all leading to growth.
So the next time someone asks, “Are you the CEO?” I won’t hesitate. I’ll stand tall, look them in the eye, and say, “Yes, I am.”
And this lesson doesn’t just apply to business. It extends to every aspect of our lives—our jobs, our relationships, and our personal growth. We must take leadership and ownership of our responsibilities, starting first with our minds. Once we believe in our ability to lead, we will naturally begin to act like it. True change begins when we recognize our own power and step into it with confidence.