A coaching client, whose husband was teaching their son how to drive, told me a story that reinforces an important fact.  She said, one day, as her husband, once again, admonished their son for not using his right turn signal, their son pulled over, stopped the car, looked his dad in the eyes and said, “Dad, why are you yelling at me? You never use your right turn signal.”

While parents, teachers and leaders might wish the old adage, “Do as I say, not as I do,” was true, we all know from experience, it’s not.  The people you develop and lead are more influenced by your behavior than they are by your words.  In fact, research says that 93% of communication is conveyed through behavior.

So what does this mean to you and how can you put it into action?  Inc.’s article “7 Simple Ways to Lead By Example” offers an excellent  list of easy-to-adopt, relatable ways to effectively lead your team, your students and your family.

Remember, people may hear your words, but they believe and imitate what you do.  So, for best results, do as you want them to do.