8 Steps To Effective Leadership
Leadership is a term that is used to identify and describe someone who is in a position of authority. But does being in a position of authority make a leader? Not a chance! We all can think of people who are in positions of leadership who have no clue how to lead. In fact, they teach us what not do.
Leadership is not inherent. It is a skill, like learning how to play the guitar, kite surfing, or playing golf. Most people can identify a strong leader when they see one but often have a hard time defining what that is. I have learned that there are specific qualities that great leaders often exhibit.
If we desire to become a more effective leader (We all lead in some capacity) of our business, team, family or of ourselves here are the 8 steps we need to master.
8 Steps To Effective Leadership
1. Share Our Vision
Leading requires a vision and the ability to clearly and passionately articulate our vision. When we are emotionally engaged with our team, a mutually shared vision can transcend an average business to a world-class one. A company who is vision centric creates a strong culture that attracts a following of people that believe in what you believe in.
2. Take Action
Nothing starts till we do. Many dreams die on the vine because of a lack of action. Procrastination is the killer of dreams and is driven by uncertainty and doubt. Overcoming procrastination requires a strong purpose. “When our purpose is big enough the how becomes easy.”
3. Be Of High Integrity
Our actions speak volumes about our beliefs. What we do is more important than what we say. A congruency of action is essential to effective leadership. A leader will not just tell the way but show the way. Nothing undermines leadership more then a lack of integrity.
4. Remain Steady In The Face Of Adversity
The one thing we can count on is adversity. When life’s challenges occur and adversity knocks at our door how do we show up? Are we steady as a rock with a calming voice or do we contribute to the chaos? The individual who shows courage and strength will gain respect and reveal themselves as a trusted leader.
5. Dare To Be Remarkable
A team becomes inspired when they are lead by someone who see’s more in them than they could have ever imagined. Most people want to be challenged. They are excited to be part of a big vision. High achievers are naturally attracted to leaders who encourage them to dream big. This is a secret formula for a world-class business.
6. Challenge The Status Quo
Good enough is never good enough! This is what great leaders know. They understand when to push the envelope and push the team to the next level. Effective leaders strive for excellence while understanding perfection is an illusion. Why settle for mediocrity when greatness is our destiny?
7. Invest In Ourselves And Our Team
Constant and never ending growth is the mantra for effective leaders. It is the job of the leader to be consistently learning. They surround themselves with coaches and teachers who are smarter and think bigger than them. They also invest in their teams. Effective leaders know a growing team, grows businesses.
8. Grow More Leaders
If we are not building and growing more leaders then we are failing. When we inspire the people around us to grow we are paying forward the power of leadership. Sometimes when people around us grow, they leave our team. This is a good thing. It means we have helped them identify their purpose. Great leaders mentor and build great leaders.
Growing More Leaders Is A Good Thing Even If They Leave…
About the author, Dr. Jay LaGuardia
Dr. Jay LaGuardia has spent over 20 years teaching, coaching, and training patients and chiropractors alike the keys to a better life. Having built several successful business, and improved the health and quality of life of thousands of patients, Dr. Jay LaGuardia now focuses on helping people from all walks of life to achieve all their hopes and dreams.