In my four decades of identifying, qualifying, training, developing and consulting to thousands of actual and/ or potential leaders, I never recall, even one, stating he hoped to be mediocre! Every individual I have ever come into contact with, who ascended to a position of leadership, seemed to hold, or, at least, articulated great hopes and aspirations. They all seemed to want to make their mark, and a difference/ change for the better! However, the reality often differed significantly with the aspirations, and many of these individuals, did little to distinguish themselves, in any type of significant manner! If you are reading this, you probably, either have served, are serving, or are considering becoming a leader. Therefore, you should ask yourself this question: Why, and how, would you be a SPECIAL leader?
1. Strong; sincere; sustainable system: How will you be strong enough to make a positive difference for your group, and be the leader who institutes relevant changes, for the better? Will you both, perform, as well as be perceived, as being truly sincere, and strengthen those who follow you? The true measure of a real leader is not merely addressing current needs, etc, but creating, developing and instituting the best sustainable system!
2. Priorities; planning: A true leader must pay attention to the adage, Don’t sweat the petty stuff. Remember, it’s not about your ego, or always getting your way, but, rather, addressing needs, priorities and concerns, in a timely, well – coordinated manner! The essence of leadership is quality planning, but will you be strong enough, to truly, plan to lead?
3. Empathy; excellence; example: Constituents tend to follow leaders who possess true empathy, which they gain by listening effectively, caring, questioning, and identifying how others perceive things to be! They never accept good – enough, but consistently strive for excellence, in everything they do, and plan. They are the example others proudly point to, look up to, and seek to emulate!
4. Compassionate; caring; clarify; choices; cooperative: Will you both, behave, as well as be perceived, as being compassionate and caring deeply, about those you serve? Will you assume you know, or will you ask pertinent questions, so as to clarify issues, etc? How will you go about making choices, and will you feel comfortable making those decisions? Will you seek to be cooperative, or follow the adversarial approach?
5. Timely; trends: One of the greatest enemies/ obstacles to quality, effective leadership, is one’s remaining in their comfort zone, rather than expanding it, and taking timely, well – considered action! Understand the trends, but balance using new alternatives, alongside those tried – and – proven methods.
6. Attitude; aptitude ; action: You’ll never become a truly, effective leader, unless you proceed, consistently, with a positive, can – do attitude! You must develop your skills, knowledge, judgment and wisdom, and utilize your full potential, and maximum
7. Listen; learn; leadership: I’ve often discussed the skills, assets and attitudes of being a true leader. Effective leadership requires listening effectively, learning extensively, and leading those you serve properly!
If you decide to become a leader, you owe it to yourself, and those you serve, to be a SPECIAL one! Will you?
Why, And How Would You Be A SPECIAL Leader?
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