Leadership

I've been giving a lot of thought to the idea of leadership lately.  What makes a good leader?  How does one inspire others to do things well and with pride.  I know from my perspective as a follower, I like to be lead by competent, efficient and appreciative leaders.  Lead by example and find a way to inspire me to work beyond my limits.

I've been fortunate to have had such leaders, dare I say mentors, in my life over the years.

It has shaped the way that I choose to lead:  I focus on those following.  This is not always easy to do, but by genuinely connecting with those I lead, I find they will stretch a little harder to work with inspiration and pride.

Let me explain:   it is understanding what uniquely inspires those following.  It is always possible to align the corporation's needs with ways to inspired employees?  No, not at all, but therein lies the challenge.  How do you present goals that will inspire employees.

It was timely then, for a co-worker to share this article with me by Forbes.  The Most Successful Leaders Do 15 Things Automatically, Every Day  It's a quick read and I highly recommend it.   Personally, I like the opening paragraphs discussing the organic way we become leaders.  Why?  Well, I suppose that's because it's taken me a long time to see myself as a leader, but today, there is no doubt in my mind that I am one.    Am I successful as a leader?  I suppose the jury may still be out on that one, but I will always work hard at being aware of those who follow.