Marks of a leader
There is a difference between having the title of “leader” and actually being one.
Much of what passes for leadership today is, well, not leadership. It’s more performative than substantive. So as a way of keeping myself grounded, I comprised this list of leadership characteristics:
Trustworthy
Humble but not retiring
Ready to learn
Open to constructive feedback
Slow to judgment
Empathetic
Willing to hold others accountable - and to be held accountable myself
Attentive to the impact of my words and actions on others
Clear on what the job is
Kind
Committed to values that do not shift with circumstances
Interested in a broad range of perspectives
Invested in the good of everyone in my care
Responsive rather than reactive
Aware of my growing edges
Able to make the best possible decisions - in concert with others and with the information available
Attuned to what my very wise body is telling me
Discerning about what worthy risks are and when to take them
Continually eager to keep earning the privilege of being in the role
Responsible with the resources at my disposal
Focused on possibility rather than scarcity
Emotionally and spiritually mature
What would you add to this list?
Note that none of these qualities is a hard skill that requires a certificate or degree, though we always want to be growing in our strengths and understanding. The size of the leadership platform doesn’t matter either when exercising these characteristics. That means we all have the ability to be leaders in our spheres. And thank goodness, because this time in the world is going to call on us all to step up and embody all of the goodness above to the extent that we are able.
Lead on, wherever you are.