A Leader Is...

A Leader Is...

There is certain leadership ideas that we fail to identify and comprehend. Here is a short list of things you thought you knew about leadership.

*Leaders come in all shapes and sizes.

There are different types of leaders and you will almost certainly meet more than one type in your lifetime. Formal leaders are those we elect into positions or offices such as the senators, congressmen, and presidents of the local clubs. Informal leaders or those we look up to by virtue of their wisdom and experience.  Both formal and informal leaders practice a combination of leadership styles.

*Leadership is a process.

Although some people seem to be born with leadership qualities, without the correct environment and exposure, they may fail to develop their full potential. You do not become a leader in one day and just stop. Lifetime education is vital in becoming a good leader for every day brings new experiences that put your knowledge, skills, and attitude to a test.

*Leadership starts with you.

As an adage goes "action speaks louder than words." Keep in mind that your trustworthiness as a leader depends much on your actions: you’re dealings with your family, friends, and co-workers; your way of running your personal and organizational responsibilities; and even the way you talk with the newspaper vendor across the street. Repeated actions become habits. Habits in turn form a person's character.

* Leadership is shared.

A leader belongs to a group. Each member has responsibilities to fulfill. Effective leadership requires members to do their share of work. To learn how to work together requires a great deal of trust between and among leaders and members of an emerging team. Trust is built upon actions and not merely on words. When mutual respect exists, trust is fostered and confidence is built.

*Leadership styles depend on the situation.

Sometimes, leaders employ a combination of leadership styles depending on the situation.