A TRUE LEADER
A TRUE LEADER
A good leader is one who knows the way, shows the way and goes the way - John C. Maxwell
Leaders of repute have never confined themselves to just being achievers. And it holds more so now for leaders of the 21st century because the relationships, work culture and work ethics have become more complex than before. A true leader is an amalgamation of many varied qualities such as good communication skills, confidence, sense of responsibility, commitment etc. Here are a few which make them stand apart.
A true leader is undoubtedly a good listener. To give shape and structure to his/her vision he/she would need to build a strong and robust team. Every member of the team should be empowered to share his/her thoughts fearlessly. The ideas and suggestions made by the team members can then be analyzed and incorporated after giving it due regard. The leader is thus able to instill confidence in the team members who then feel valued. In this way a strong and cohesive close knit team is shaped.
Leaders all across the world have always shown great positivity. This trait is a sure motivator and can make even the most difficult tasks seem doable. Even when things go wrong, a true leader keeps the spirit high which in turn creates a happy environment. Motivating, showing the way and leading from the front are qualities that can help an organization grow steadily. Leaders have the vision, the bigger picture in mind. They are thus able to break the task down to smaller targets that are easily achievable and on completion give a sense of great accomplishment which generates positivity.
Calmness is a trait that is always admired in a leader. Productivity is always better when we can think clearly and that surely is possible if the leader himself/herself maintains equanimity and cool headedness. You can well imagine the chaos and confusion that might arise if the head of the organization is not pragmatic, prudent and down to earth. It is in difficult and adverse times that a genuine and strong leader helps the organization weather the storm.
A leader should possess a good sense of humour. He/she should be able to laugh at his or her mistakes. When things go wrong at the workplace a good joke from the leader is always welcome to lighten the air. A true leader should ensure that every one’s morale in the organization is high. This is one sure way to promote camaraderie and a spirit of affability much needed in rough times.
Recognizing the strengths of each team member is a quality of a true leader. Obviously, a leader cannot perform all tasks by himself or herself. Delegation of tasks to the right person of the team requires the leader to know his team well, both their strengths and their weaknesses. By assigning jobs to the correct persons ensures the job being completed in the optimum way. When team members are appreciated for a good job done, it is a huge motivator and inspires them to take up bigger challenges. Thus, grooming of new leaders is initiated.
By sharing their knowledge and skills, leaders aid and guide the team members to grow and give them the opportunity to achieve. A true leader thus creates more leaders and the cycle continues.
Meenu Chopra
Principal
DCM YES, Ludhiana
