In my four decades of identifying, qualifying, training, developing, consulting to, and serving as a leader, I have never come across one, who stated at the onset, that he just didn't really care, but was doing this, for other reasons. Perhaps, at that stage, everyone cares, but I don't believe so! Rather, my theory is that while most pursue leadership, because they initially, at least, believe they are the best choice, and have the ability and what it takes to make a real difference, there are quite a few others, who do so, for personal, ego - driven, power - driven, and/ or selfish purposes! It's not enough to simply say you do, but rather real leaders must be ready, willing and able to clearly demonstrate, and prove they CARE!
1. Clarify; cure; cooperate; choose:
True leadership must begin with a focus and willingness to clarify the issues, challenges, needs, concerns and priorities! How can anyone make a difference, for the better, without first knowing what needs to be addressed? True leaders must proceed in a similar manner as a caring physician, seeking to cure what ails the group, and make the right changes, without harming the organization! They must seek to cooperate and bring people together, to unite, rather than polarize! A real leader must be capable of choosing, and making the best choices, in a timely, well - considered manner!
2. Attitude; attention; articulate; amiable:
When there is conflict, which way will you proceed - to pit one side against the other (letting the chips fall where they may), or in amiable, unifying, meeting - of - the - minds manner? Will you be able and willing to pay attention to the right priorities, while considering the bigger picture, and the possible ramifications and contingencies? Will you see obstacles as being problematic, or as challenges to overcome, and transform into opportunities? Doing this will take a caring, dedicated, positive, can - do attitude! Will you proceed in an amiable, friendly manner, or as a grump?
3. Relevant; real; reach:
How will you determine what is relevant, and the highest priority? Will you maintain a true, open - door policy, and be true to your word? Will you be a real leader, who cares so deeply, he will maintain the highest level of effort, despite challenges, obstacles and inevitable adversities? How will you reach put to those you serve, so as to clearly demonstrate, you really care deeply about them?
4. Empathy; endear; example:
Will you listen effectively, and learn what those you serve, feel, focus on, care about, are concerned with, and consider to be priorities and needs? Proceeding with empathy will endear you with them, because they will come to realize and understand, you deeply care about them! Will you step forward, and set the example, for others to follow?
It's never enough to simply say you do, but real leaders clearly demonstrate how much they CARE! Will you be that type of leader?
Richard has owned businesses, been a COO, CEO, and Director of
Development, as well as a consultant. He has professionally run events,
consulted to thousands of leaders, and conducted personal development
seminars, for over 4 decades. Rich has written three books and thousands
of articles. His company, PLAN2LEAD, LLC has an informative website: http://plan2lead.net and LIKE the Facebook page for leadership planning: http://facebook.com/Plan2lead