Do You Need a Title to Make a Difference?

You might think you need a title, a corner office, or all the authority to create change. The truth? Leadership starts right where you are, with the actions you take and the courage to speak up.

Whether at home, at work, or in your community, your influence is already there, waiting for you to claim it.

I used to tell myself that I couldn’t make change because of the level I held. I wasn’t a CEO, I wasn’t in the executive suite, and I didn’t wield all the power in the world. I thought influence came only with a title.

Many of us believe that real change is only possible from a position of authority. This mindset, tied to authority bias, makes us overvalue formal titles and underestimate the power of our own voice. But I’ve learned this is a misconception.

True leadership is about action, initiative, and influence, not the office you sit in.

The Power of Small Actions

Influence without authority is not only possible, it’s real. When you speak up, propose a better way of doing things, or collaborate with others, small changes begin to ripple outward. It starts with noticing where you already have a voice and taking action, even in small ways. Suggesting process improvements, sharing knowledge, or stepping forward to solve a problem may seem minor, but these actions create real impact. People notice initiative, credibility grows, and momentum follows.

Leadership emerges from the courage to start, not the power granted by a position.

Collaboration Multiplies Influence

Leadership rarely happens alone. Collaborating with colleagues, finding allies for an idea, or supporting someone else’s project turns small actions into meaningful change. Sometimes, the most powerful influence comes from leading by example. Demonstrating integrity, professionalism, or a strong work ethic inspires others to follow suit. Your behaviours send a message about what matters and what is possible, often louder than any directive could.

Your Daily Choices Create Ripples

Leadership starts with the choices we make every day. Every idea voiced, every small action taken, and every instance of stepping up creates a ripple that extends far beyond ourselves. Titles are nice, but they aren’t required. Influence, initiative, and courage are.

The question isn’t whether you hold a formal role, it’s whether you are willing to act where you are, lead through connection, and make a difference regardless of position.

Reflect: Notice where you already have a voice. What small actions have you taken that created impact, even quietly? What strengths or qualities do you bring to your work, family, or community that can make a difference?

Decide: Choose one action you can take today to influence change, no matter how small. Who can you collaborate with or support to turn ideas into results? Leadership is about initiative, not permission.

Act: Take that step. Speak up, share your idea, offer help, or model the behaviour you want to see. Every small action builds momentum and influence, proving you don’t need a title to lead or make a meaningful difference.

Leadership isn’t about the position you hold, it’s about the courage you show in every small action.

Yours truly,

Dr Kenny

❤️

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