What Makes a Person a Leader?

In today’s world where we can seemingly be anything, with all the access to knowledge and expertise, why we are missing inspiring and authentic leaders?

There are countless books written, education programs crafted, and training courses designed to support those leading teams, yet the majority of people we meet are good or excellent managers—not leaders.

We call them leaders mainly because they’re proficient at setting and achieving goals. But leadership is so much more than that, and there are many ways to achieve goals, some of which may be far from “inspirational” or “authentic.”

What is it what leaders have, and managers don’t ?

Great leaders have a clear VISION and a deep commitment to achieving the desired outcome, along with an unwavering belief that it must be realized. They have a profound understanding of how this vision will transform people’s lives or the essence of things. Their passion and relentless energy inspire us—the way they articulate their vision motivates others to join them on this journey and contribute to its realization. We find ourselves giving more and striving for our best because, suddenly, the work feels more meaningful and fulfilling. It’s not just about tasks and evaluations accompanied by rewards and bonuses, we feel significant and special, truly a part of something greater.

Yet not every person with vision makes a great leader. There is one essential characteristic of each such individual and it is profound SELF-AWARENESS. Self-awareness is a foundational quality for being an inspirational and authentic leader. It involves a deep understanding of one’s own emotions, strengths, weaknesses, values, and the impact one has on others. This quality is crucial for several reasons:

1. Aligning Actions with Values:

• Self-aware leaders have a clear sense of their own values and beliefs, which helps them act consistently and with integrity. This alignment between actions and values builds trust and respect among followers, as people are more likely to follow leaders who are true to themselves.

2. Emotional Intelligence and Empathy:

• Self-awareness is a core component of emotional intelligence. It enables leaders to recognize and manage their own emotions, which in turn helps them to understand and empathize with the emotions of others. This empathy is crucial for building strong relationships, resolving conflicts, and inspiring others.

3. Authenticity and Vulnerability:

• Being self-aware allows leaders to acknowledge their imperfections and vulnerabilities. Instead of pretending to be flawless, they can admit their mistakes and learn from them. This authenticity resonates with others, making them more relatable and approachable, and inspires trust and loyalty.

4. Balanced Decision-Making:

• Self-aware leaders are more likely to recognize their biases and limitations. This awareness helps them seek diverse perspectives and make more balanced, informed decisions. It also fosters a culture of openness and collaboration, as team members feel valued for their input.

5. Personal Growth and Development:

• Self-aware leaders are constantly reflecting on their behavior and seeking to improve. They are open to feedback and willing to learn from their experiences. This commitment to personal growth sets an example for others and creates an environment where continuous learning and development are valued.

6. Building Trust and Authentic Relationships:

• Authentic leaders who are self-aware are transparent about their motives and intentions. They communicate openly and honestly, which helps build strong, trusting relationships with their team. Trust is a crucial element of inspiration, as people are more willing to be led by those they trust.

7. Resilience and Adaptability:

• Self-awareness helps leaders recognize how they react to stress and challenges. Understanding their own triggers and coping mechanisms enables them to maintain their composure and resilience in difficult situations. This ability to adapt and remain stable in the face of adversity inspires confidence in their followers.

8. Empowering Others:

• Self-aware leaders understand their own limitations and are more likely to delegate tasks effectively, empower others, and recognize the contributions of their team members. By acknowledging their own areas of improvement, they create space for others to grow and lead in their own right.

9. Fostering a Positive Culture:

• Leaders who are self-aware and authentic foster a culture of openness and psychological safety. Team members feel more comfortable being themselves, sharing ideas, and taking risks. This type of environment can lead to increased creativity, innovation, and overall job satisfaction.

10. Inspiring Through Example:

• Self-aware leaders inspire others through their actions. By living their values and demonstrating honesty, humility, and empathy, they set a powerful example for their teams to follow. This kind of inspiration is more profound and lasting because it is rooted in authenticity.

So, who do you think you are, and who do you want to be—a leader, a manager, or a follower?