BEING A CEO DOESN'T MEAN LUXURY AND BUSINESS CLASS FLIGHTS

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As a corporate trainer since 2010, I’ve had the privilege of meeting and working with different kinds of leaders. And here’s what I’ve learned: when people hear "CEO," their minds often conjure images of luxury: business class flights, five-star hotels, expensive suits, and a life of effortless privilege. While these stereotypes may hold true for a select few, the reality for most CEOs is far from this glamorous perception. Being a CEO is not about luxury, it's about responsibility, sacrifice, and resilience. I have personal experience in running a business, and I can tell you, it's not a walk in the park.

The Myth of the "Instagram CEO"

Social media often perpetuates an idealized version of leadership. We see pictures of CEOs jet-setting across the globe, dining at exclusive restaurants, and showcasing their successes. But what these curated posts fail to reveal is the behind-the-scenes grind, the sleepless nights, and the weight of making decisions that affect employees, clients, and the future of the business.

Being a CEO means you are the one responsible for steering the ship, whether the waters are calm or stormy. It’s not about enjoying the ride in first class, it’s about ensuring everyone else on board reaches their destination safely.

The Realities of Leadership

Here’s what being a CEO often looks like:

  1. Tough Decisions: From layoffs to budget cuts, CEOs must often make decisions that are necessary but unpopular. Each choice comes with consequences that ripple through the organization, and the burden of those decisions falls squarely on the CEO’s shoulders.

  2. Long Hours: The workday for a CEO doesn’t end at 5 PM. Whether it’s strategizing for growth, addressing crises, or simply ensuring things run smoothly, the job demands time and attention far beyond the typical workday.

  3. Personal Sacrifice: Forget about the stereotypical "work-life balance." Being a CEO often means sacrificing personal time, family moments, and sometimes even health to fulfill the demands of the role.

  4. Financial Risk: Many CEOs, especially those running startups or small businesses, invest their own money into their ventures. The financial risk can be immense, with no guarantee of success.

  5. Emotional Resilience: CEOs face criticism, setbacks, and pressure from all directions. Developing a thick skin and the ability to stay calm under pressure is not just helpful, it’s essential.

The True Rewards

While the challenges are many, being a CEO also comes with unique rewards that have little to do with material luxury. These include:

  • Impact: The ability to create jobs, solve problems, and make a difference in your industry is deeply fulfilling.

  • Growth: The challenges of leadership push you to grow in ways you never thought possible, both personally and professionally.

  • Legacy: Building something that lasts beyond you is a reward that no amount of money or luxury can match.

Redefining Success

Success as a CEO isn’t measured by the car you drive or the vacations you take. It’s about the lives you impact, the value you create, and the growth you inspire in others.

So, the next time you think about what it means to be a CEO, look beyond the polished Instagram posts. Remember the grit, the sacrifices, and the resilience it takes to lead. Leadership is not about luxury; it’s about responsibility and that is where the real power lies.

Location: Philippines

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