Leadership isn't about the position you hold or the authority you command; it doesn't matter if you're a manager, a CEO, or the president. It's about leadership qualities and leadership skills you can develop in any role you take on in life.
Some people are able to envision the future and paint such a compelling picture for others that they want to go along for the ride. It's leadership that's purpose-driven, focused, and inspiring.
Authentic leaders deal in truth. Their words and actions are congruent, and this goes a long way in creating dependability and trust. Besides that, being genuine makes them very likable, and someone people want to follow.
A wise leader has an open mind and collects facts before coming to conclusions. They listen more than they speak and seek to understand. This allows them to respond instead of reacting — netting the best solution while making people feel heard.
Effective leaders know that being connected with people on an emotional level is the only way to gain their commitment and engage them. To do that, they have to be able to put themselves in someone else's shoes.
Conscientiousness is more than doing careful, thorough, and good work. It's about taking personal responsibility and living by an inner sense of right and wrong.
When a leader demonstrates courageousness, they are showing that they are optimistic in the face of obstacles. There is an element of risk-taking, but not recklessness.
Of all of these traits, humility is the most essential and rare. Leaders who embody it get vulnerable with their people, admit their mistakes and learn from them. They're able to contain their egos and think in terms of "we."