The final test of a leader is that he leaves behind him in other men the conviction and the will to carry on.
– Walter Lippmann -Twentieth century journalist and Pulitzer Prize winner.
A good leader is able to motivate other people to perform at or above their previous best in order to produce results that will help the leader achieve his primary desires. A true leader helps others think about themselves rather than thinking about the leader. A true leader can help others succeed and thereby help himself to succeed. If you help people get what they want, then they will help you get what you want. Sometimes you can give a little and receive much in return. Of course, you need to know what it is that someone wants or needs.
A leader’s basic responsibility is to build a team whereby individual strengths are enhanced and weaknesses are reduced to insignificant levels. A good leader has the ability to develop mutual respect and motivate those around him/her. A good leader provides vision and direction for the team.
In the movie “Dave”, a look-alike is hired to impersonate the President of The United States. At first, he takes his job lightly and only does it for the money. Shortly after he starts, he asks a Secret Service Agent if he would sacrifice his life for the president and actually shield the President from gun fire. The Agent did not respond. He did not want anything to do with the impersonator. When the real President dies unexpectedly, the look-alike assumes the presidency and begins putting the good of the people before conventional politics and himself. The presidential look-alike helps the homeless and shows compassion for all people. After exposing several corrupt officials, he loses the job as “president.” Before he walks off to disappear into the crowd, the same Secret Service Agent turns to him and says: “I’d take a bullet for you.” This kind of loyalty is the result of his having exhibited great leadership qualities. He makes people feel appreciated. He puts their good above his own short term gains.
Developing good leadership qualities will enable you to motivate others and gain their assistance in your conquest of barriers as you move to achieve your primary desires. Developing into a great leader will put you on the road to Building a Better Biz!
