As indicated by a recent survey, a staggering 90% of HR leaders acknowledge that success in the modern workplace depends on s leader’s ability to prioritize the human aspects of leadership. This hence leads us to the fundamental question of what, then, constitutes leadership? In our quest of defining leadership, let us debunk some myths around.
The landscape of leadership has undergone a transformation within the dynamic contours of today’s evolving work environment. It seems that the concept of leadership has become complicated. The current understanding of influence has evolved into a compilation of characteristics that, over time, demonstrate little impact.
The following 10 factors may indicate the potential for leadership, but, they do not guarantee it. Certain individuals possess all of these attributes and yet do not exhibit leadership qualities, whilst others lack these attributes entirely and still have exceptional leadership abilities.
1. Leadership isn’t about charisma
Charisma can be a powerful asset in leadership, but it should not be viewed as an imposed prerequisite that might discourage many people. Great leaders are always eager to learn and look for personal and professional development opportunities. In addition, it is essential for the leader to foster a climate of ongoing education and development among team members.
2. Leadership isn’t about eloquence
Leadership is not all about eloquent speeches, it is not all about the ability to articulate perspectives & opinions for people’s admiration. Being able to express yourself is important, but leadership is defined by results, not attributes, Peter F. Drucker, the founder of Modern Management, has said.
3. Leadership isn’t about power
The title Chief Executive Officer isn’t what makes you a leader. It is important for a leader to use his/her words, actions and ability to motive and influence others. Leadership is not one-man show; leaders acknowledge the power of collaboration with the team to develop effective solutions.
4. Leadership isn’t about seniority
Leadership doesn’t automatically happen when you reach a certain age or pay grade. Furthermore, merely surpassing others in the hierarchy of a company does not inherently qualify an individual as a leader.
5. Leadership isn’t about scale
Leadership is not determined by the magnitude of one’s responsibilities or the size of their team. It is about the ability to inspire and influence others towards a common goal, regardless of the scale. True leaders can emerge from any level or position within an organization, as it is their actions, vision, and ability to motivate that truly define them.
6. Leadership isn’t about popularity
You’re not a leader just because everyone likes you. As author Robin Sharma stated: ‘’Leadership is not a popularity contest; it’s about leaving your ego at the door. The name of the game is to lead without a title.’’ In other words, leadership is about doing the right thing at the right time rather than the popular thing.
7. Leadership isn’t about fame
The world doesn’t need to know about you for you to be a leader. Leadership is, at its core, the art of authentic self-expression or the optimization of personal capabilities. It revolves around instigating change; every individual possesses the capacity to influence and reshape a situation for the collective good. Every person has the potential to impact and enhance the lives of others, fostering inspiration and excellence, given the opportunity to do so.
8. Leadership isn’t about winning
Leadership is not a competition or a race to be won. It is about collaboration, cooperation, and empowering others to reach their full potential. A true leader focuses on building strong relationships and fostering a supportive environment rather than solely focusing on personal victories.
9. Leadership isn’t about wealth
A leader’s wealth lies in their ability to motivate and uplift those around them, not in their bank account . True leadership is about using one’s skills, knowledge, and influence to inspire and guide others towards a common goal. It is about making a positive impact and bringing about meaningful change, regardless of financial status.
10. Leadership isn’t about education
You’re not a leader just because you’re degreed and credentialed. True leadership involves a continuous thirst for knowledge, a commitment to ongoing personal and professional development, and a profound understanding of one’s own strengths, weaknesses, and biases. Effective leaders actively pursue personal growth and actively foster a culture of self-reflection.
Good Leaders must be able to demonstrate sufficient understanding and knowledge of the relationship factors in safety leadership by creating trust and psychological safety that encourage and inspire employees to grow into their best selves.
A good leader must also understand the powerful role of emotions by recognizing and managing
own emotions and understand and influence the emotions of others, especially when we are under pressure.
A good leader listens more than he/she talks!