The preening boss loves the trappings of power and prestige. He or she wants the biggest office, the most luxurious limousine, the newest private jet, the most expensive paintings on the wall.

Such bosses justify their behavior by asserting that their display is aspirational, meaning employees will see what success can get you, and will work hard to achieve it too.

I don’t buy it.

The innovation leaders who are super-successful (and, by the way, super-rich) invariably project an image of personal modesty. These are people like Bill Gates, Warren Buffett, and Michael Bloomberg. Their only goal is to get the job done, and flaunting their wealth doesn’t help them do that. They earn the respect of those who work for them by connecting with their subordinates, inspiring them to do better, adapting to whatever disruption comes along, and innovating to stay ahead of the pack. The billions they earn come as the result of their effective work with teams who respect them.

Innovation Leaders Know…

They’ve reached a level of intellectual and emotional development at which they no longer need to seek validation through bright shiny objects. The most successful innovation leaders would never dream of listing “finances” as part of what they are most proud of. Innovation leaders are mission centered, and winning at missions that matter is what they care about.

Ask not to be judged by the quantity of your bling but by your accomplishments and what you’ve done to improve the lives of your fellow citizens.