Posted by Theresa Bradley-Banta
A leader is best when people barely know he exists, when his work is done, his aim fulfilled, they will say: we did it ourselves.
Lao Tzu
One of the best things I’ve learned throughout my life — first as the oldest of 6 kids and later in running multiple businesses — is that a really good leader doesn’t tell you he or she is leading.
If you want to be a successful leader, and I believe everyone is capable of leading well, here are some approaches you might want to consider practicing on a daily basis.
- Demonstrate a clear vision.
- Refuse to blame others.
- Be honest about your own mistakes.
- Don’t make speeches.
- Don’t be afraid of the unknown.
- Approach your role as leader with humility.
- Suspend judgment when listening to others.
- Ask, “What if…?”.
- Worry only if your team stops bringing their problems to you.
- Seek out diversity.
- Keep your promises.
- Don’t let your feelings cloud your decision making.
- Put yourself in other people’s shoes.
- Have a deep, subconscious belief in your worth.
- Don’t underestimate the ability of your team.
- Be willing to work hard.
- Keep your eye on future results.
- Maximize others contributions – give credit where credit is due.
- Be a story teller when describing the big picture.
- Let your team find the answer when it is already clear to you.
- Be consistent in your personal style.
- Set challenging goals.
- Inspire, coach and empower.
- Never leave anyone behind.
- Surround yourself with talent and get out of their way.
- Be cool in a crisis.
- Bring a can-do attitude – enthusiasm is contagious.
- Possess unwavering courage.
- Create an environment where motivation can thrive.
- Make sure your team feels valued.
This blog definitely gets better with your comments – anyone else have suggestions?
Theresa Bradley-Banta, co-creator of www.bigfishtopdogs.com, is a musician, award winning graphic artist, mentor, coach, blogger, and owner of multiple businesses. You can follow her on twitter @bigfishtopdogs.
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