Who is going to get recognition or promotion?
Which leader would you choose?

I was thinking about those people who act condescending, who feel superior just because of their title or position. They believe they should be the first to get recognition or promotion, as if their title alone makes them more deserving. Others are seen as “just” subordinates. Their work is dismissed because their job title doesn’t include “leader,” “head of,” “officer,” “manager,” or whatever else sounds important. So in their eyes, these people aren’t legitimate candidates for promotion.

But the truth is, the ones underestimated often hold diplomas, skills, experience, and knowledge—sometimes more than the so-called leaders. They are pragmatic. They take on the jobs nobody else wants, often because they don’t have a choice, and because of the mindset that says: “I have the title, so I deserve more.” Yet, great ideas often come from the bottom. Unfortunately, those at the top too often take the credit, leaving the true contributors invisible.

There are leaders in name only, and then there are real leaders—the ones who know their people, guide them, trust their teams, and lead by example. Real leaders understand the work, can teach it clearly and simply, and encourage their teams to take ownership and responsibility.

I don’t put my trust in titles or words. I trust behavior, because actions reveal who you really are. I’ve stopped believing I’m better than anyone else or that I automatically deserve more. That’s not always the case. Recognition and promotion shouldn’t be limited to one kind of person. Underestimating others is a huge mistake—because who knows what you could, or couldn’t, accomplish without them?