As we always say here, everything rises or falls on leadership. Good leadership is a very conscious choice, that has to be made over and over again and constantly reflected on. Here are some attitudes and attributes I think good leaders need (in no particular order):
1. Generosity
Growing leaders share. They share their expertise, resources, and compassion with their organization. There is a trust inherent in giving generously (not to mention that it feels good.
2. Service
Christ gave us his example when he washed the feet of his Apostles. He wants leaders to take the opportunity to place the needs, desires, and ambitions of others ahead of their own.
3. Health
While there’s a temptation to overwork, it shouldn’t come at the expense of health. If a leader isn’t healthy, a leader can’t serve. This includes all forms of health: physical, mental, spiritual, and emotional. By having these in line, you can be better equipped to take on challenges that arise.
4. Solid Relationships
Happy people have deep, significant relationships. The biggest gift we can give to others is our time. And to develop these relationships is paramount if we hope to help others achieve their potential. An effective leader truly values these relationships.
5. Willingness to Lean Into Conflict
It isn’t fun, but it can be a great opportunity to grow and learn. Don’t go looking for conflict, but don’t avoid, lean into it when it comes your way. Remember that it’s more important to win the relationship than to win the argument. Take responsibility for your mistakes if you made them and forgive others.
6. Receptiveness
One trick to helping others is to listen to them for as long as possible before you respond. A growing leader always wants to find new ways to get feedback from team members.
7. Optimism
Successful leaders are most often optimistic leaders who see opportunities, even through challenges. Don’t let your past dictate your future. Learn from it and look forward to future success.
8. Movement
If you want to create a movement, it has to move. Movement, growth and change is the heart of leadership. Don’t change just to change, but change in the right direction. It isn’t easy, but it is worth the effort.
9. Make Decisions
Don’t procrastinate. Try not to stress over decisions either. There are few decisions you can make with absolute certainty, but worrying won’t be productive either. It is more important to make a timely decision.
10. Willingness to Fail
Not failure but the willingness to fail and the growing ability to bounce back from it and share it is key to good leadership. People will listen to your stories of adversity more than your tales of success. Failure is a natural, shared human experience. When things fall apart, share it with others. We all have been through it.
