Yesterday at the beach, a little boy came up to me while I was decked out in all my open-water swim gear. Picture this: a wetsuit, booties, gloves, headgear—every piece designed to protect me as I faced the 51° water. He stared up at me with wide, curious eyes and said, “You look like a superhero.”
Without missing a beat, I replied, “I am!” His face lit up. He believed me, and so I went with it, offering to take a photo together. It was a sweet and simple interaction, but it resonated with me in a much deeper way. It reminded me of the subtle yet immense power of the “suits” we wear in leadership.
The Suits That Shape Perception
Whether it’s a title, a tailored suit, or even the kind of car we drive, these “costumes” signal something to the world. People notice them, and often, they make assumptions. They trust that those in visible “suits” are superheroes of sorts, capable of strength, courage, and wisdom.
The reality is that this belief carries with it a profound responsibility. It’s an honor to be seen in this way, but also a challenge. Leadership isn’t just about holding a title or wearing the costume; it’s about showing up with passion, authenticity, and direction.
The little boy at the beach didn’t know my story or why I was there. But in that moment, I represented something to him. That’s what leadership does. It represents possibility.
Pressure is a Privilege
Leadership is rarely without its pressures. It reminds me of athletes, particularly those who step onto Olympic stages or the highest levels of competitive sports. Many of them tap the sign that says, “Pressure is a privilege” before heading out to compete. It’s a phrase that captures the essence of stepping up to a challenge and offering yourself as an example of excellence under scrutiny.
This privilege doesn’t just exist on a field or a stage. It’s present in everyday life, in boardrooms and classrooms, and even on a quiet beach. The pressure to perform, to achieve, and to embody values matters, especially while others are watching.
But here’s the thing about pressure: it’s always there, regardless of whether we actively take it on. Society’s pressures for success, appearance, and conformity are plentiful. The real privilege lies in choosing which pressures matter to us… which ones we want to step up for.
For me, I want the privilege of being seen by that little boy as a superhero—not for my gear, but for the courage, presence, and joy I carry within me. I want him to feel the impact of seeing a woman show up with strength and gentleness. That small moment may influence him long after he’s forgotten the image itself.
Being Your Own Superhero
The truth is, not everyone has the same opportunities or access to the “gear” it takes to tackle certain challenges. Not everyone can afford a wetsuit or learn to swim. Not everyone is drawn to the same challenges.
And that’s okay. Leadership and heroism look different for everyone. It’s not about wearing someone else’s costume; it’s about finding your own.
For me, it’s swimming, learning Italian, hiking, coaching, speaking and mentoring others. These things light me up and give me a sense of clarity and purpose. To some, watching me thrive in these spaces might make me resemble a superhero. But really, I’m just doing what brings me joy, and that, in itself, can feel extraordinary to others.
The Courage to Lead
Leadership isn’t about being perfect; it’s about being present. It’s about saying yes to the pressures that align with who you are and what matters most to you.
For some, leadership might look like excelling in an office setting, mastering complex spreadsheets, or guiding a team through challenges. For others, it could be as simple as showing up with integrity and honesty in everyday conversations.
We all have costumes, whether they’re literal or metaphorical. The key is deciding how we wear them. Are they an extension of who we truly are, bringing us to life in ways that give us purpose? Or are they chosen out of a need to meet society’s expectations, whispering, “You’re only important if…”?
The power lies in choosing to wear what aligns with our values and allows us to show up fully. The real question is, do we use the privilege of these “suits” to uplift, inspire, and empower others?
What Makes a Superhero?
“Next time I swim, you’re coming with me, okay?” I said to that wide-eyed little boy before setting off on my mile swim. His face brightened as he nodded, “Okay,” and then I saw him watching me intently for those first 100 yards, mimicking my strokes in the air from the safety of the beach. That moment stayed with me, reminding me of something deeply important.
It’s not the suit alone that makes the superhero. It’s the energy we bring, the joy we radiate, and the courage we embody as we move through life. Superheroes aren’t made by their tools or titles, but by how they choose to live boldly, authentically, and with purpose.
The Ripple Effect of Leadership
We don’t all have the same resources, opportunities, or stages to stand on, but every one of us can choose to embody what makes us come alive. And when we dare to lead—even in simple, everyday ways—we create ripples that often inspire others in ways we can’t fully see. A spark of courage here, a glimmer of joy there, and soon we’ve ignited a sense of possibility for someone else.
By following your own passions, by choosing pressures that align with your values, and by owning your uniqueness, you send a powerful message. You show others that it’s okay to stand out. You give them permission to seek joy, authenticity, and individuality in their own lives.
Choose Your Costume Wisely
The world doesn’t need another version of someone else’s superhero. It needs you. Your story. Your perspective. Your courage to wear your “suit” in a way that reflects your truest self. Somewhere, there’s a “little boy” or someone just like him, watching you. Not for perfection, but for proof of what’s possible when someone dares to suit up and lead.
Choose your costume carefully. Wear it with intention. And step into the kind of leadership that makes not just your world, but everyone’s world, a little braver and a lot brighter.
Misti Burmeister
Misti Burmeister helps companies and leaders motivate and inspire excellence. For nearly 20 years, she has facilitated communication that results in trust, increasing engagement and productivity across generations. Make sure your communication is coming across the way you intend, visit https://www.MistiBurmeister.com