Mohammad Bahareth: Award-Winning Author, Business Consultant, Space Innovator, and Dyslexia Advocate Redefining Strategic Innovation.
Leadership is often associated with grand speeches, authoritative presence and a commanding voice. But sometimes, the most powerful leaders are the ones who work quietly and make an impact not through words but through actions.
I recently lost one of the most influential people in my life. He was a publisher, and his passing is a great loss, not just for those who knew him personally but also for the publishing world and the many lives he touched through his work. But he wasn’t just a publisher; he was a mentor, a guide and, in many ways, my second father. Through his silent leadership, unwavering faith and commitment to helping others, he transformed my life and career in ways I never imagined possible.
As a person with dyslexia and ADHD, entering the world of writing was a challenge. I had stories to tell and ideas to share, but navigating the publishing industry was overwhelming. My books were like orphans, struggling to find a home—until he took them under his wing. With his guidance, I went from publishing five books to more than 40, proving that disabilities are not limitations but strengths when nurtured correctly.
From my years of working with him, I learned three invaluable leadership lessons that every business leader, entrepreneur and professional can apply to their own journey.
1. True leaders work in silence.
He was a man of few words, but when he spoke, his words carried wisdom and purpose. He never sought the spotlight, nor did he chase recognition. Instead, he focused on getting things done, ensuring that the people around him succeeded.
I believe this style of leadership—working in silence while delivering exceptional results—is a powerful strategy in today’s fast-paced business world. Many leaders feel the need to constantly prove their worth through meetings, reports and presentations. But the best leaders let their impact speak for itself.
If you want to be an effective leader, here’s what I recommend:
• Prioritize action over words. Let your results showcase your abilities.
• Listen more than you speak. Sometimes, the best way to lead is by understanding before reacting.
• Focus on others’ success. In my view, a great leader’s legacy is measured by the success of those they mentor.
2. Patience and persistence yield the best results.
When I first started writing, I was eager to see my work published and recognized. He, however, taught me the importance of patience. He never rushed success; he believed great things take time to build.
This lesson applies to business as well. Entrepreneurs and professionals often expect immediate results, but real success is built through consistency, learning and adapting.
Consider these strategies to build long-term success:
• Embrace the process. Growth takes time; trust the journey.
• Refine before launching. He read my books before publication, ensuring they met the highest standards. Apply the same principle to your work: quality over speed.
• Stay committed. Whether in business or writing, persistence separates leaders from the rest.
3. Give without expecting anything in return.
One of the most remarkable things about him was his generosity. He gave without hesitation, helped without expecting a favor in return and supported others purely because he believed in them.
This kind of selfless leadership is rare but incredibly impactful. In the corporate world, I believe leaders who invest in people—whether through mentorship, training or encouragement—create teams that are more loyal, innovative and driven to succeed.
Here’s how you can apply this lesson in your leadership style:
• Be a mentor. Invest in the growth of those around you.
• Celebrate others’ success. True leadership is about elevating people, not competing with them.
• Lead with generosity. A simple act of kindness can create ripple effects beyond what you can imagine.
Carrying Forward The Legacy
The mentor and guide I lost was more than just a publisher; he was a visionary who saw potential where others saw limitations. Thanks to his faith in me, I achieved things I once thought impossible. His leadership wasn’t about authority—it was about empowerment. His wisdom wasn’t in loud speeches—it was in silent actions. His impact wasn’t just in the books he published—it was in the lives he transformed. While he may be gone, his lessons, kindness and impact will live on.
As leaders, entrepreneurs and professionals, we can all take a page from his book: Work quietly, lead patiently and give generously. That is how you build a legacy that lasts.
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