Here are ten enduring truths about leadership, backed by research carried out over the years:
You make a difference: Before you can lead, you have to believe you can make a positive impact on others. You have to believe in yourself.
Credibility is the foundation of leadership: As well as believing in yourself, you have to behave in a way that will spur belief in you. If people don’t believe in you, they won’t willingly follow you.
Values drive commitment: People want to know what you believe in and you need to know what others treasure if you are going to create the commitment needed to bring everyone together into a powerful force.
Focusing on the future sets leaders apart: Leaders need the capacity to imagine and articulate exciting future possibilities. They need a long-term perspective.
You can’t do it alone: Leadership is a team sport.
Trust is paramount: If you rely on others, you will need their trust. That will only come if you trust them first.
Challenge is the crucible for greatness: Exemplary leaders don’t maintain the status quo, they change it. Change invariably involves challenge, and challenge tests you. It introduces you to yourself. It brings you face-to-face with your level of commitment, your grittiness, and your values.
You either lead by example or you don’t lead at all: Leaders must keep their promises, and be role models for the values and actions they espouse.
The best leaders are the best learners: Learning is the master skill of leadership.
Leadership is an affair of the heart: Leaders respect their colleagues and their constituents. They make others feel important, and graciously show appreciation. And they love their work, or they wouldn’t be successful at it.
