As Americans head into the Labor Day long weekend, I can't help to think about how we work and how we lead. This weekend is always billed as the last "hurrah" of summer and so many people kick up their heels and "vacation" somewhere memorable.

As an entrepreneur - I will work straight through the long weekend. As the leader of my firm, I am responsible for drumming up business, marketing our services to prospective clients and following up on leads to close deals. Leadership entails strategic planning and acute time management skills. Many leaders are unable to multitask - I mean REALLY multitask! This is why today's Forbes.com article on Steve Jobs' Ultimate Leadership Lesson for Entrepreneurs struck a chord with me. The author writes "It is this ability of Steve Jobs to hold completely disparate ideas and values in his mind at the same time, synthesize and then act upon them, that is one of the keys to his genius." I agree - you have to be able to act upon your ideas...and that is what I am doing right now. Carpe diem!

Leadership is a labor of love...I mean...you really have to love leading in order to be good at it. In my case, as a start up small business owner who is running a marathon for charity in just 64 days, I have to be willing to give up weekends to generate new business while also getting up at 4:15 in the morning to train for my commitment to the charity fundraiser. It's a balancing act that requires priorities, goal setting, perseverance and yes...leadership!

So for all the leaders - I wish you a great Labor Day. Hopefully, you will take the time enjoy some of the holiday weekend with your family and friends.

For anyone who would like to support my charity efforts as I endeavor to raise $3,800 for The Alliance for a Healthier Generation when I run the NYC Marathon in 9 weeks...here is the link where you can donate (www.crowdrise.com/karenrenaeowens)!

Happy Labor (and Leadership) Day!

-Karen