What makes a good leader?
Each of us has the potential to be a leader. Some of us make that a goal and some of us have that honor thrown upon us, having not wanted that honor at all. The question is, “What makes a good leader?”
Tell It Like It Is
As the person in charge, we are going to have times when we have to confront someone when they can be doing better or when they’re doing something wrong. We need not sugar coat our words, but at the same time we should not seek to be cruel, especially when it is not a matter that requires disciplinary action. We should address the matter at hand and give tips on how the other party can do better. We are not required to be buddies, as attachment can lead to conflict of interest, but it helps to let people know we are not their enemy.
Be Present
It helps to show up when we are expected to, especially if the occasion is our idea. Unexpected things such as family emergencies; bad weather; and health matters we can’t control, but constantly not showing our faces may cause the ones we lead to question us.
Put Ourselves in Someone’s Shoes
Sometimes others may not see things the way we do on a topic. Being able to place ourselves in another person’s situation can help ensure a good decision that will be good for the majority if not for all.
Set an Example
Like children observing their parents, our followers are watching us. Watching us to see if we are what we say we are. If people see us following our own rules; laws; and statutes we encourage, they will want to do the same thing…sometimes.
Learn From Mistakes
As a human being failure is inevitable. We are going to make the wrong choices on accident or on purpose, because at the moment it felt right. The good thing about screwing up is that we can reflect on the error, and then find a better choice for next time. But we must be careful in leadership positions, because our choices could literally affect the lives of those who have chosen to follow us.
Open The Floor
As leader, we may be expected to have all the answers. Reality check- we don’t know everything. Chances are we may not even feel we are leadership material even if we earned that title. This when having team members comes into play. Take opportunities to let colleagues voice their ideas and opinions on how to go about a matter.
Getting to Know Your People
Background checks are necessary if we are an employer of course. Beyond that there are more layers to the onions that are our people. What motivates them? What are their strengths/ weaknesses? What can they bring to the table? What do they expect of themselves? What do they expect of us? What are their goals? How can we help them get to where they want to be?
Appreciation
Who doesn’t like to hear the words Thank You. These two words alone will demonstrate to our followers; colleagues that we value the work the work they do and that we seem as human beings. We are merely one person. One person may be the face for a nation; political party; company, or movement, but it takes people working together to give that body strength.
Prayer
Whether you are a believer or not, a little divine insurance is good assurance. On your own time, in your own place, pray you can do your job right.
From government officials who boldly run states and countries to pastors acting as shepherds to sheep, we can all be good leaders, with the right guidance and characteristics.
Be Well. Be Groovy. Thanks for reading!
DavidSpeaks 
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