CEO Is a Job. Leader Is a Legacy.
This year, I've reflected deeply on leadership. Merriam-Webster defines a leader as someone with commanding authority or influence—a noun. But it misses a key point: leadership isn't synonymous with being a CEO. While the titles often blur, a true leader wields influence without a board reporting structure. Having held both roles, I can confirm they're fundamentally different.
I recall the George Floyd tragedy, when I wrote to my investors expressing how deeply it hurt and urging us, as influencers, to take a stand and lead by example. My executive coach responded, "Carrie, I've rarely met leaders as strong as you at your age—but know this: you're not just a CEO; you're a natural-born leader."
How did I cultivate such empathy young? It stems from lifelong difference: mixed-race and disabled, diagnosed at 12 with dystonia, a neurological disease. Early on, I navigated the pain of exclusion, relying on others' kindness—doors held open, seats offered (which I stubbornly refused, standing in agony), or that rare New Yorker yielding a cab. Their empathy forged mine—and taught me that asking for help isn't weakness, but courage.
In 2020, amid rising anti-Asian hate, I witnessed leadership emerge in my friend Dave Lu. He's since championed the Asian community, uniting it to celebrate Asian beauty and achievements. Watching Dave harness his influence to ignite this movement has been inspiring.
Leaders must prioritize empathy: truly listen to employee feedback instead of firing off a late Slack demanding "one more thing." Pause to ask, "What are your holiday plans?"
Over the weekend, I read that Taylor Swift spent weeks handwriting personalized thank-you notes for her Eras Tour team—truck drivers, caterers, dancers, band, technicians, choreographers, security, and production staff. She sealed them with wax, describing the moment they opened them as feeling like "Christmas morning" for her.
She distributed $197 million in bonuses because great leaders know you're nothing without your team. Regardless of opinions, the Eras Tour was a business success, and Taylor exemplified leadership by recognizing every contributor's hard work—no one was too insignificant to matter.
As we look toward 2026, let's redefine empathy and leadership—and decide what kind of leader we want to be.
Close out the year with self-reflection: examine how we treat others through our words, nonverbal cues, and actions. A CEO is a job; a leader leaves a legacy.
