Just like last time, it’s back to Jim Rohn. What some call the father of modern personal development. I have learnt so much from listening to the late great master on audio and love sharing some of that wisdom. What follows is an adaptation of his 7 traits of great leaders.
1) Be Strong, but not rude
We value strength in our leaders. People who are assertive, know where they are going. What position they have. Don’t tolerate s*** from people. But they do so in a way that is respected. And isn’t one that gets people’s back’s up – even if they don’t agree per se.
2) Be kind, but not weak
Kindness, compassion, generosity. These are all great values to exemplify. Sometimes, people can mistake being kind for being weak. But more fool them. Kindness is strength. Don’t be someone who also makes that error.
3) Be bold, but not a bully
We are living in a world where we must, as leaders (and as anyone else) make bold choices. Bold discovers, bold innovations. Sometimes that will be over those non-believers. This is fine. This is about pursuing those bold ideas and dreams, but you don’t have to be a bully about it. Some well known CEO’s (high admired) also had reputations for being bullies at work. While their companies may have made billions – even been the most valuable company in the world at one point, while they may have been considered by others to be visionary leaders, or great innovative leaders – were they really great leaders? Super leaders? Not according to JR!
4) Be Humble, but not timid
Be humble. It’s great to be proud of your achievements, but you can still maintain some semblance of humbleness. That’s what this is about. Don’t be timid about what you’ve achieved. Say it, promote it – whatever. But recognise when you leave the realm of being humble to one of arrogance or egotism. You know what these words mean and get the gist.
5) Be Proud, not arrogant
Again, closely tied to number 4. Have pride in what you have done. But there is a fine line that can sometimes be crossed when you are perceived by most to be arrogant. Sometimes this might take a third party you trust, letting you know.
6) Be Witty, not silly
A quick wit, someone who can laugh at themselves and make others laugh. These are great qualities in a person and can add to your ability to lead others. That said, you don’t want to be seen as a fool, or not take seriously, so it’s going to be a challenge at the Christmas party when you’re asked to participate in some sketch. No one wants to turn into a David Brent (sorry Ricky Gervais!) So, find your witty self, and leave the dunce hat at home.
7) See things as they are, not worse
“Oh my God, this is a crisis!!!!!” Really? Is it. So you lost a major customer. Major order. Key Employee. Did anyone die? Permanently injured? If not, then it’s probably not a disaster. It is what it is. View is objectively and with a level head. You’ll get to the solution far easier than considering it a crisis or disaster.
Don’t play ostrich with your head in the sand though and think it’s not bad either. See it as it is.
What do you think about these 7 traits. I’m sure we can all come up with more. Let me know below.
