I once heard a leader in a training class say he was far more valuable to the company doing his day-to-day work than sitting in a classroom discussing things he already knows. I could empathize. Deadlines are real. Experience is real. And yet, the statement brought me to wonder. How many leaders reach a point where development becomes a box to check rather than a discipline to practice? A healthy leader knows that transformation never stops. When a healthy person stops eating well or exercising regularly, the decline may not be immediate, but it is inevitable. Healthy habits may look repetitive on the surface, yet the benefits compound over time. Leadership growth works the same way.

Imagine two lists. One contains the qualities that a businessperson should have. The other includes the attributes that most would say they wouldn’t want to have. There’s only one word I can think of that might top both lists: vulnerability. Whether we’re talking about leadership, teamwork, or client service, there is no more powerful attribute than the ability to be genuinely honest about one’s weaknesses, mistakes, and need for help. Nothing inspires trust in another human being like vulnerability. There’s something immensely attractive and inspiring about humility and graciousness.

As I thought about this end-of-year article, especially as a first-time contributor to the Colleen C. Barrett Institute, I kept coming back to three words—reflection, gratitude, and optimism. I’ve been part of the Southwest story for 18 years and am privileged to help lead, support and sustain our Culture initiatives, which, of course, began under Colleen’s Leadership. I remember her passion for Southwest history—reflecting on where we’ve been; her consistent focus on the present—being grateful for where we are; and her anticipation of the future—optimistic about where we’re going.

Southwest Airlines and Chick Fil-A are iconic brands known for kindness and courtesy toward patrons and peers and also for enduring success. Just as Colleen Barrett lived and led by the Golden Rule, Chick fil-A Founder Truett Cathy also built a business anchored in serving and loving others. Few people understand that more than original Chick Fil-A Pioneer and former Marketing Executive David Salyers. For the months of October and November, the CCB Institute is delighted to share his words of wisdom in the realm of Servant Leadership. You are going to LUV this values-driven, practical action piece—don’t miss it!

As someone still new to Southwest Airlines and just beginning to appreciate the incredible legacy of Colleen Barrett, being asked to contribute to her tribute site is both an honor and, truthfully, a little intimidating. I know I bring experience, skills, and perspective from the Communications and Brand world, but I’m also very aware of the weight of her impact and the iconic reputation she helped create.

On behalf of my 72,000+ Southwest Airlines Cohearts, I join our CCB Institute family, along with friends of The Fellowship and Unstoppable Cultures organizations, in honoring the memory of the extraordinary Ginger Hardage. She was a trusted Leader, confidant, mentor, and cherished friend to me and many others, and she will be missed.