Six Things That Make or Break a Leader

Leadership develops daily, not in a day.

It’s something we must consistently and intentionally focus on if we are to be effective. It is something that can be developed and strengthened. Contrary to some opinion’s in the world today, I don’t believe people are just born ‘natural leaders’. Yes, some are born to lead, but they won’t lead well unless they work at becoming a true leader. 

There are many qualifiers that effect a leader’s success. One of my favorite books on that topic is John Maxwell’s ‘The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership‘. That said, here are six that I believe will greatly determine what kind of leader you will be.

• What You Read
  That’s assuming you do read. Reading has always been a little bit of a challenge for me, but I’ve figured it out. The key isn’t that you read – it’s that you find great books, articles and blogs to read as well. Lately, I’ve discovered that a revisit to some of the books I read ages ago (like the one mentioned above) has really helped me stay sharp as a leader.
  “Not all readers are leaders, but all leaders are readers.” Harry Truman
  
  
• Who You Are With
  I think you can tell a lot about a person by looking at their friends and mentors. Who we surround ourselves with will impact the kind of leader we will become. If our circles tend to be small-minded or pessimistic, it will be difficult for you to dream big and push through the dips in life. Of course, the opposite is just as true.
  “A leader’s potential is determined by those closest to him.” John Maxwell
  
  
• How You Think
  This mostly has to do with your attitude. Do you tend to believe you can face the difficulties and challenges that come your way? Do you digress and complain about roadblocks or accept them and move on? How you think about your circumstances will greatly impact your success as a leader.
  “The last of the human freedoms is to choose one’s attitude in any given set of circumstances.” Holocaust survivor, Victor Frankl
  
  
• What You Say
  The Bible has a lot to say about our words. In the leadership world, worlds can rise or fall on the words of one man. People can be inspired to greatness or brought down to despair with just a few comments. What you say to those around you, both verbally and non-verbally will determine if and how people follow your lead.
  “Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a great battle.” Philo of Alexandria
  
  
• What You Do
  Indecision is a your greatest enemy. Leaders will make the tough decision and act on it, even when there is no clear indicator that they will succeed. They won’t be stupid. They’ll just be proactive and take initiative. Better to fail and learn from your mistakes than stay stuck in indecision, do nothing, and learn nothing.
  “Well done is better than well said.” Benjamin Franklin
  
  
• What You Believe About People
  There is no doubt in my mind that I would not hold the influence and platform that I currently have if it weren’t for the leaders in my life who believe in me. Often, their faith in me is far above my own and my drive to succeed comes from what they believe about me more than what I do. Look at those around you and choose to believe the best in them and for them – and don’t forget to tell them regularly!
  “When you believe in people, they do the impossible.” Nancy Doran