What is leadership?
This notion of what it means to truly lead has been something I’ve dissected, discussed, studied and contemplated for many years. The older I get, and the more I experience good and bad leaders, the more I understand about how leadership works effectively, what kinds of leaders I learn and gain the most from, who to avoid, and how to be a better leader. These are my findings as of now.
Leadership is taking people from where they are currently to a goal or destination that betters their lives and brings them blessing.
Leadership requires focus because there are distractions on the path that can throw everyone off course without the keen eye of the leader and the awareness of the goal.
Leadership requires vision because the destination and goal has milestones and markers along the way. Leaders must be able to see and identify some of those markers before they’re reached to spur their followers on to keep taking steps forward.
Leadership requires sacrifice, cutting away at areas of the whole when necessary, even at a loss for the betterment of the group. Even laying down your own ambition for the betterment of someone else is what a leader does to ensure the destiny is reached.
Leadership requires strong and clear communication to avoid pitfalls of confusion and misunderstanding, which can lead to mistrust and rumors, detouring the group from the path.
Leadership requires patience and empathy because often followers operate more like stubborn cats than loyal sheep. Herding cats can feel like torture. Herding sheep becomes a calling.
Leadership requires persistence and strength, because failure is a part of every course and every life. Leaders find the strength to handle the naysayers and stay focused on the goal, and persistence to keep moving forward, leading your tribe to the destination you have vision for.
Who has exhibited these leadership qualities in your journey? Share them with me here:
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