Good Morning, Leaders!  It’s Friday!

I firmly believe that one of the false pretenses we face today is that this world is meant to be good, fair, and reconcilable…and anyone who decides otherwise must be a fatalist.

In a very recent conversation with one of my pastors, we hashed over some of the qualities of leadership-caliber character, including humility. Followers perceive this quality to be an important aspect of someone they would listen to. I agree.

Another redeemable quality is Integrity. Dr Henry Cloud, in his book on the subject describes the kind of character that:
1. Creates and maintains trust
2. Is able to see and face reality
3. Works in a way that brings results
4. Embraces negative realities and solves them
5. Causes growth and increase
6. Achieves transcendence and meaning in life

I think courage is another quality that people can get behind but I’m not just talking about David (from David and Goliath) – type courage, I’m thinking about those who understand the world is broken but have the courage to persevere without succumbing to the multiple trappings this world offers to self-medicate and endure. I’m talking about the courage to inspire, to trudge through the muck knowing full well there is no oasis on the other side but persist because it is their duty…in a “Saving Private Ryan” sort of way.

If humility, integrity and courage were the three primary characteristics of your leader where they listened before speaking, they gave and kept their word and displayed unflappable commitment to the primary mission of your organization despite the circumstances or the consequences…I’d call that a solid leader.

Leaders are all around us well beyond title or position description. Leaders come in all shapes, sizes, age, nation of origin, religion, or gender. If you are a leader, be a better one AND give an aspiring leader a boost. If you hope to become a leader, the list above is not a bad place to start.

If you’re not sure where you stand or don’t know what you’re next step is…start with the sage advice bestowed on me rather early in life – Lead, follow or get your butt out of the way!

Have a blessed weekend.