March 2004

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Qualities of Leadership

Because leadership is inextricably connected to who we are deep down, every leader has a different style. Some lead with their eccentric, charismatic selves on full, charming display. Other leaders bear no banners and sound no trumpets.

But the inner qualities that make for effective leadership remain constant among all types of leaders:

Positive attitude. Leaders know they can alter their lives by altering their minds. Self-discipline, a sense of security and confidence blossom in the presence of a positive attitude.

A drive for learning—from others, from opportunities, from mistakes. Those who stop learning, stop growing.

Unwavering commitment. No great leader has ever lacked commitment. True commitment requires and inspires courage, passion, focus, initiative and responsibility.

Communication. Sharing knowledge is essential; even more important is listening. As President Woodrow Wilson said, "The ear of the leader must ring with the voices of the people."

Interest in others. The best leaders thrive on helping others achieve their personal best; they are motivated by a desire for the highest good for all rather than personal glory.


 

Ways to Handle Adversity

Take responsibility. Assume an "I can do something" attitude rather than pointing fingers. If nothing else, you can control your own response to the situation.

Limit the focus. Don't let the problem become all encompassing. When you compartmentalize the difficulty, you can focus on a workable solution.

Be optimistic. Believing in life as positive, even with hard-times and troubles, will result in positive behaviors and positive actions.

Think creatively. Approach the problem from different directions. Trust your creativity.

Have courage. Having courage doesn't mean you're not afraid. It means you don't let fear get in the way of doing what you need to do.

Take action. Handling the day-to-day details can keep you from getting bogged down in the mud of adversity. Determine what can be done, and do it.

Take the long-range view. Remember that "this too shall pass." Recount other times when you have overcome challenges.

Maintain a sense of humor. Laughter helps ease the pain even in the darkest times.

Get support. No need to handle it all alone.

Don't quit. Persistence may be the greatest of human qualities that help us overcome adversity. Consider how water smoothes stones and wind sculpts cliffsides.

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