Being a leader is hard. It's a rare occasion for a leader to not experience doubts, failures, pain, push-back, great strides, miracles, and celebrations. All in all, it's important to remember that there must be balance. As leaders we must take the good and the bad, know how to handle it all, and make each experience move the team in a positive direction. That's easier said than done of course, so here are 8 reminders every leader needs to hear:

1. "The art of leadership is saying no, not saying yes. It is very easy to say yes."

Learning how to say 'no' can be one of the biggest challenges you'll ever face as a leader. Many people will present great ideas to you that could work. But, if in the end you know it wouldn't be beneficial in the long run or for the whole, saying no is necessary. Don't be afraid to turn down ideas. It's your job to sift through all the options you have, and put the best ones in place. So, when it comes right down to it, don't worry about how a small group, or even an individual, would feel if you say no. If it's the best for the whole team, then just say no.

2. "High expectations are the key to everything."

Set the bar high for yourself and for your team. If you aim high so will everyone else. Be the example and set high expectations.

3. "Leadership is unlocking people's potential to become better."

Never forget you're helping to shape people. It is imperative to remember that while you're leading a group within a specific discipline, you're also leading a group of human beings that can learn from each other and experiences...use everything as a learning experience.

4. "You have to think anyway, so why not think big?"

Stop limiting yourself and learn to reach past the limits you've created for yourself.

5. "Fall seven times, stand up eight."

We all make mistakes, and just because you're a leader doesn't mean you're exempt from making mistakes. Ask for feedback, apologize when necessary, and lead with all your heart. Most of all, though, never give up no matter how much push back or negativity you receive.

6. "The art of communication is the language of leadership."

Communication is always key, but not necessarily with every single person on your team. Learn to delegate, learn to directly address groups/individuals when necessary, and learn to keep at least one other person in the loop at all times. Above all, understand that it is OK for you to not share all information and decisions with every member of your team., as that could cause more harm than good.

7. "Leadership is the capacity to translate vision into reality."

Execution is key. Goals and visions mean nothing without the drive and tools to make them happen. It's time to step up, make things happen, and remember that you're in this position for a reason -- you have something that no one else has, you have the power to choose and to lead. So lead, and make your team the best it can be.

8. "Leadership and learning are indispensable to each other."

The beauty of leadership is being able to learn from those you're leading. Open your mind to what you can learn from others about them, the world, the discipline, and even yourself. The best leaders learn while they're leading because they're not above learning alongside their teams.