Effective leadership does not come from the outside in. It comes from the inside out. You have to be totally clear about your values, ethics, beliefs and philosophy. You also need to understands your own behaviors and emotions.
A leader with integrity, passion, and commitment can influence others simply by living and working in harmony with his values and goals. People learn to trust a leader who shows integrity and ethics. They walk alongside the leader supporting and collaborating even when the road is rocky and the direction uncertain.
Leading from the inside-out means:
- Being comfortable with who you are and being in control of yourself, instead of trying to control others.
- Understanding your individual characteristics and qualities, including your mayor strengths and weaknesses.
- Having strong values and finding ways to incorporate them in your leadership.
- Understanding the role of emotions in your leadership and knowing how to express them appropriately.
- Cultivating not only your intellect and skills, but also your emotional intelligence.
As John Maxwell says:
“Leadership truly develops from the inside out. If you can become the leader you ought to be on the inside, you will be able to become the leader you want to be on the outside.” - (From The 21 Indispensable Qualities of A Leader)
Remember. . .
The most important person to lead is yourself. By developing self-awareness and flexible command of your mind, you will be able to let go of previously unconscious limiting beliefs and their associated defensive habits (like avoiding powerful conversations, e.g. appraisal discussions). You will also be able to connect more strongly with your values, let your leadership presence flow and act authentically in serving those you lead.
Are you the leader you ought to be on the inside? Do you know how to understand and develop you inner qualities? If not, Contact me today for a free, no obligation interview to decide how can I help you be more creative and have a more creative workforce.
Photo taken by Dr. Ada @ Antelope Slot Canyon, Utah.