What is a leader?
What makes a leader?
Why some people (organizations) and not others?
I don't know the for sure answers to these questions, and I don't know if I ever will. But I am learning, as I meet leaders both good and bad.
Don't get me wrong here: I know some absolutely lovely people, good friends and whom I admire in many other ways, who simply aren't leaders.
Some characteristics that I would suggest make a good leader...
- vision
- confidence
- respect for others
- ability to delegate
- genuine love for and interest in people
I believe that some people are born with these traits, and others learn them - and that neither is better or worse.
I aspire to be a good leader, and believe that I can be... but also believe I have a lot of progress to make. Fortunately, I am fortunate to know some excellent role models and mentors in this area.
What do you think? What makes a good leader - and why?
I believe that a leader is someone that inspires others to not just follow, but do as they do. It's not so much a people skill as it is a lifestyle. True leaders live as leaders. It's not something that can be turned on or off.
ReplyDeleteHey Lonnie,
ReplyDeleteExcellent point! I agree - a good leader naturally has followers, and they are always leading. Thanks for the input!