I am often asked what makes a good leader. My first response is everyone isn't designed for leadership. People who desire power, fame, and fortune may grind to inherit or pursue leadership positions. However, true leaders understand this role comes with a price and few can absorb its weight of responsibility. How do you recognize a true leader? Here are seven principles of great leaders;
True leaders operate with integrity. Leaders do what is right even when no one is watching. Leaders have character. Leaders do not compromise their beliefs or values. Leaders protect their name and reputation above everything. Leaders are not afraid of going against the norms and do not care what others think of them, especially when they operate in truth, trust, and transparency.
True leaders are not your friend. Leaders are not concerned about the relationships they lose by being consistent in their approach to life. Leaders will always tell you what you need to hear, not what you want to hear. Leaders may be empathetic, but they know truth may hurt. Leaders are more concerned about being respected than liked.
True leaders chart a path for others. Leaders are mentors and want to see others prosper. Leaders instill principles that motivate others to greatness. Leaders are not afraid to let people go in pursuit of their life's purpose. Leaders are unselfish and never satisfied if the people they lead are not performing at their highest level.
True leaders lead from the front. Leaders create the plans and build the strategies that move organizations forward. Leaders have vision and know how to cast vision so their teams will catch it and run with it. Leaders do not pass the buck when the outcomes are not favorable. They accept responsibility and are accountable to those they serve.
True leaders weather storms. Leaders do not run and hide when difficult situations arise. Leaders know how to keep the ship afloat and keep people from abandoning the ship in times of distress. Leaders are solutions driven and find a way to get the ship back on course if winds of torment create fear, doubt, or insecurity.
True leaders surround themselves with leaders. Leaders do not build their teams with people without critical thinking skills. Leaders are not afraid to be challenged and give credit when excellent information, thoughts, and ideas are presented to them. Leaders do not need to be the smartest person in the room. Leaders don't want control. They empower other people around them to shine and make succession planning their first priority.
Leaders speak and breathe life into those who follow them. Leaders understand the power of words. Leaders use words and language that directs people toward their destiny. Leaders do not discourage. Leaders support and acknowledge a job well done. Leaders reward efficiency and eschew mediocracy with diplomacy. Leaders speak the right things at the right time. Leaders do not lead on emotion or feelings.
These are the principles of great leaders. Those who practice these principles consistently will always have the respect and admiration of their teams. If you are in a leadership position, know people will follow you wherever you take them if you are consistent. I have said many times, people don't leave organizations. They leave the leadership of those organizations. Become a leader of excellence and watch your infectious leadership motivate and build other leaders of greatness.
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