Walk Straight, Walk Firm

Leadership does not always begin with talk. Sometimes, it begins with walk. 

How you talk and how you walk both plays a vital role when you are in a leadership position.

While walking, keep your back straight, your head high, and your gaze forward. This posture doesn’t just signal confidence; it expands your vision. When the spine is upright and lungs are open, the breath flows in rhythm.

Move in rhythm. Let your arms swing naturally—stretched below, moving forward and backward in sync. Walk fast and steadily, but never in a hurry. Each footstep should land firmly, as if marking your commitment to the path ahead. This pace saves time, yes—but more importantly, it signals focus. Observers sense that you have important tasks to accomplish and that you walk with purpose.

Speak while walking, but don’t stop. Colleagues may interact with you. Respond with warmth—a brief glance, a few words—but maintain your rhythm. Leadership is not about stopping to explain; it’s about moving forward while remaining accessible.

Know you’re being watched. Your walk is a silent speech. Students, peers, and strangers observe your posture and gesture. They draw inspiration from your steadiness. Walk as if you are entrusted with something greater… greater than yourself!

Wear shoes that support your stride. Good footwear matters. Brands like Skechers, with its heel offer a subtle spring, help you move forward comfortably. Feel the pressure on your toes; it propels you forward. Let your shoes become silent allies in your journey!

Practice daily. Exercise keeps your posture upright and your stride strong. Walk on a track, walk with awareness, walk with pride. Over time, walking becomes not just a habit, but a mark.

I had the privilege of walking alongside great leaders from academia, industry, and politics. Those are the moments of pride. But more than those, I remember my daily walk through the 500-foot corridor of my institute. Back straight. Head high. Eyes forward. I knew it would inspire my students and colleagues. And it did. One of my students recently reached out, recalling how my walk inspired him.

So when you walk, walk with pride.

Pride in your integrity.

Pride in values.

Pride in walking the talk.

Dr. Mahendra Ingale @Pune on Oct 24, 2025

(Value Based Leadership, Publishing soon)