Important Qualities A True Leader Should Posses

How often have you heard the comment, "He or she is a born leader"? There are certain characteristics found in some people that seem to naturally put them in a position where they are looked up to as a leader.

Whether in fact a person is born a leader or develops skills and abilities to become a leader is open for debate. There are some clear characteristics that are found in good leader. These qualities can be developed or may be naturally part of their personality. Let us explore some of them.

1. A good leader has an exemplary character. It is of utmost importance that a leader is trustworthy to lead others. A leader needs to be trusted and be known to live their life with honestly and integrity. A good leader "walks the talk" and in doing so earns the right to have responsibility for others. True authority is born from respect for the good character and trustworthiness of the person who leads.

2. A good leader is enthusiastic about his or her work or cause and also about his or her role as a leader. People will respond more openly to a person of passion and dedication. Leaders need to be able to be a source of inspiration, and be a motivator towards the required action or cause. Although the responsibilities and roles of a leader may be different, the leader needs to be seen to be part of the team working towards the goal. Such leader will not be afraid to roll up his or her sleeves and get dirty.

3. A good leader is confident. In order to lead and set directions, a leader needs to appear confident as a person and in the leadership role. Such a person inspires confidence in others and draws out the trust and best effort of the team to complete the task well. A leader who conveys confidence towards the proposed objective inspires the best effort from team members.

4. A leader also needs to function in an orderly and purposeful manner in situations of uncertainty. People look to the leader during times of uncertainty and unfamiliarity and find reassurance and security when the leader portrays confidence and a positive demeanor.

5. Good leaders are tolerant of ambiguity and remain calm, composed and steadfast to the main purpose. Storms, emotions, and crisis come and go and a good leader takes these as part of the journey and keeps a cool head.

6. A good leader as well keeps the main goal in focus and is able to think analytically. Not only does a good leader view a situation as a whole, but is able to break it down into sub parts for closer inspection. Breaking the goals down to manageable steps and making progress towards them is also non-negotiable for a good leader.

7. A good leader is committed to excellence. Second best does not lead to success. A good leader does not only maintain high standards, but also is proactive in raising the bar in order to achieve excellence in all ramifications.

8. A good leader should be creative. Some decisions will not always be so­ called. You may be forced at times to deviate from your set course and make certain bends to get something done asap in an unusual way. This is where your creativity will prove to be vital. As a leader you must learn to think outside the box and to choose which of two bad choices which is the best option. You do not immediately choose the easiest possibility; sometimes its best to give these options a deep thought and even turn to your team for guidance.

9. Ability to inspire: Greating a business often involves a bit of forecasting .Especially in the beginning stages of a start up, inspiring your team to see the vision of the success to come is vital. Make your team feel invested in the accomplishment of the organization. Being able to inspire your team is great for focusing on the future goal. It is your job to keep the spirits up and that begins with an appreciation for the hardwork.

10. A good leader should be committed and disciplined: If you expect your team to work hard and produce quality content, you will need to lead by example. By proving your commitment to the role and your activities, you will not only earn respect from your team members, but will also instill the same hardworking virtue into your members. If you pledge to do a particular thing for people, let your yes be yes and let your no be no. You want to create a reputation for not just working hard but also as a fair leader.