Being a leader is hard! Leadership requires the ability to be self-aware enough to make necessary changes, act decisively, and some other character traits that, if not naturally ingrained, must be learned. In my work with executives and leaders, I’ve found five characteristics that the best leaders have mastered.
1. Acknowledging they do not have to be the smartest person in the room and being comfortable with this. The most influential leaders are smart enough to realize that being the smartest person in the room is a weakness. This is why most influential leaders are comfortable, inviting advisors, and others to be a part of the conversations and decision-making. They purposefully look for people who are smarter than they are to fill in the gaps. Having to be the smartest person in the room lends to arrogance, and the most influential leaders can balance that tendency with a dose of humility.
2. Pacing themselves. Charging forward at too fast of a pace may sound good, but will end badly. Influential leaders recognize the value in pacing themselves for the long haul. Too many a leader has stepped into a new role blazing a trail at lightning speed only to find themselves burned out, not respected or worse–out of a job. It’s essential to understand the history of the role before striking a match and burning bridges too quickly.
3. Know when to step away. The job is all-encompassing, and everything else is secondary. The best leaders can step away from their work to enjoy what is most important. They intentionally make time for their families, hobbies, and other interests. Leadership should not require you to make the ultimate sacrifices, which include losing relationships or missing important events. Being a hard worker is a requirement; however, being a work-a-holic is detrimental, and top leaders recognize this.
4. Realizing that is best if they do not have all the answers. Top leaders recognize the importance of being curious and asking questions. They then know that listening to understand is a must. I used to think I had to have the last word or say, which is not necessary. The best leaders can step back and recognize when suggestions of others are worth consideration.
5. Noticing that they have blind spots. Usually, these blind spots relate to personality quirks or shortcomings that have not been dealt with healthily. Mediocre leaders will be sure to know every minute detail about their job; however, the best leaders look outside of the role and have the ability to look inside to note where their blind spots are. They won’t know unless they can check the ego at the door and ask those who know them best. The most respected leaders can listen to feedback and then make adjustments to better themselves.
Being a top influential leader may be what many strive for, but few attain. The most respected leaders may be tough as nails in specific settings and yet gentle enough to not tear others down. They are also able to listen to criticism and decipher what’s real and useful and let the rest go.
If you find yourself in a leadership role and you’re ready to boost your success, let’s talk. I’m prepared to listen. Contact me to schedule a conversation that could change the way you’ve been leading others here: http://maricarmenpizarro.com/contact-mari-carmen/
