Dana, it seems to me that there is more fear around us than I remember from the past. Maybe it's just a perceptual thing but our times seem to have made so many fearful about so much. Ego is a part of this but I'm not sure it's the whole explanation. Many people are just trying to get by and protect what they have. Considering what they have seen happen around them, it is a natural reaction. Yet, things are not what they could be because not enough people have been willing to stand up and lead. Leadership does take courage. We have to trust ourselves and trust that others will believe us and follow along.

We also have to recognize that the act of leadership is not easy. Often times, people know there will be hardships, resistance and more to something. Today, many people don't want to make waves and so they shy away from these types of challenges.

You are right. When people can step outside of themselves and think of what's best for others, their fear can melt away and they can often find the strength to lead.