#5: Leadership that transforms, not transacts

You see, I could have started this blog with something relating directly to this week’s discussion on transactional vs. transformational leadership, but instead, I give you this staircase. A staircase that seemingly doesn't end every time that I take it...

This staircase represents something to me. It's the staircase from the parking lot that I so willingly choose to park in. Being that this is my last semester at San Diego State University, you would think I would know the best parking lot to choose. I do, there are plenty. But for some reason, I continue to park in the one lot that requires about 347 stairs (give or take).

You may be asking me why? Yes, my legs are on fire after, but the real reason:

You see every morning, as I climb them, I ask myself: why do I do this? Is it really worth parking closer if it means almost having a heart attack from so many stairs? Sure, it’s convenient in proximity, but beyond convenience, it teaches me something deeper everyday. I have to show up and get my cardio in, even when it’s tough.

Some mornings I feel like turning around halfway up, but those stairs prove one thing: show up, conquer, and then you can get your coffee after... All jokes aside, these stairs remind me daily that mentality is everything when it comes to conquering new heights, both physically and metaphorically. Once I get to the top, at least I know i conquered at least one challenge for the day.

My point? If you consistently show up for yourself, you never know what might be waiting at the top. For me, it’s a 9:30 class where we discuss exactly this- how to be your best, not just for yourself, but for the people around you.

Anyways, beyond this fun snip of something thats been on my mind in these first couple paragraphs, below you will find a look into Elon Musk and the 4 I's of transformational leadership and why he deserves this recognition (even if he is not loved by all).

CLICK HERE FOR ELON

How have I applied transformational leadership in my life?

One situation where I applied transformational leadership principles was at my hotel job for my 498 internship when our upsell numbers were inconsistent and the energy around it felt salesy. Some agents were confident offering upgrades, others avoided it because it felt awkward or too sales-driven. Instead of just pushing harder for numbers or talking about commission, I tried to help shift the perspective for others. I started by modeling it myself by consistently upselling, sharing my approach, and being transparent about what worked. The goal? Reframing mentality form “selling a higher room category” to “elevating someone’s stay.” That small shift turned it from a transactional interaction into something intentional and truly experience-driven. I also encouraged my teammates to try different phrasing and experiment with their delivery rather than stick to a rigid script... because after all personality is key in hospitality.

I soon realized everyone responds differently to this tactic. Some collegues needed reassurance and confidence-building, while others needed to be challenged to think bigger. So I approached each person differently instead of applying one size fits all strategy to growth. Over time, our upsell performance improved, but more importantly, the mindset improved and a lot of hesitation faded. Some of my cowrkers origninally never even considered upselling until this 'level up' was happening with the team. What I learned is that transformational leadership isn’t about controlling outcomes, it’s really about influencing mentality. When people understand the purpose behind what they’re doing, the results tend to follow.

Have a blessed week and to be continued till next time!

SGH