How Inspirational Leaders Stand Out

Can you list yourself among inspirational leaders and not get laughed out of the room?

It takes no skill to be an anchor.

Evaluate your leadership by your ability to inspire people.

An inspirational leader helps people see greatness in themselves. Image of a young person pretending to be a superhero.

The Deadweight Leader

Mediocre managers carry the weight of the world and show it on their faces. They complain like a pro but support like a novice. They love their own voice. They only follow up when you screw up.

You’re on the right path if you simply avoid doing things deadweight leaders do.

The Inspirational Leader

Inspiration and encouragement are different things. Inspiration comes from within. Encouragement comes from outside yourself.

Motivated people bring their best. Inspired people might not succeed but you can’t stop them.

An inspirational leader is fascinated with others. Image of a child playing peek-a-boo.

#1. Think Beyond Yourself

It’s normal to think about yourself.

Think beyond yourself. Self-centered leaders are black holes draining energy from the universe.

Think beyond how you feel. Consider how your teammates feel. Think beyond what you need. Know what others need.

Inspirational leaders live with others in their heart.

#2. Feel the burn. 

The Blues Brothers were on a mission from God. What’s your mission from God?

Indifference doesn’t kindle fire in others.

Zeal is contagious. Energy births energy. People aren’t interested in following apathetic leaders.

Passionate leaders:

  1. Stand for something.
  2. Put themselves on the line.
  3. Bristle at mediocrity.
  4. Love what they do.
  5. Say, “Go for it.”
  6. Persist when things don’t work out the first time.
  7. Attract passionate people.

#3. See greatness in others.

Inspirational leaders energize greatness in others. Self-centered leaders exhaust people.

Weaknesses don’t inspire. Ask questions that challenge people to use their greatness.

  1. What are you going to do about that?
  2. If you reached higher, what would that look like?
  3. How would you love to contribute?
  4. What makes this important to you?

Think of an inspirational leader you had. What made them inspirational?

The #1 Quality of Leaders Who Inspire Us

What Sets Inspirational Leaders Apart HBR

Category : Leadership Development, Motivation
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