10 Traits of Exceptional Leadership
Before we begin…
Below is a leadership guide written with teenagers in mind even though it’s for anyone who wants to understand the power of resilience. It’s a short story about three friends attending a unique boarding school where they come to learn the art of leadership. Their enemies are dragons of a different kind--- dragons called depression, self-doubt, and anxiety. They go on a life- changing mission searching for The Silver Shield-- a mythical artifact said to hold the power to vanquish their inner dragons.
The idea of this guide was to support, inspire, and provide wisdom to those facing dragons of their own. It is deeply rooted in a desire to help teens who often struggle with the weight of depression.
Although fiction, it’s a reflection of the real challenges and triumphs of young minds, and a tribute to their courage and determination.
Hope you find it helpful!
A Teen’s Guide to Leadership
A reflection of the real challenges and triumphs of young minds and a tribute to their courage and determination.
Let’s Talk Leadership!
This week we’ll look at some common leadership traits, starting with resilience. If you want to learn more, I’ll include a list and brief explanation of the Leadership Trait Theory on the next blog!
There are managers and not leaders. There’s a difference. A manager makes sure things get done, it’s transactional. We work, we get paid. A leader on the other hand, inspires, motivates, and influences. There is something about that type of leader that causes us to want to do more. We want to be like them. They have certain traits, characteristics, or ways of being.
Why are traits important?
Traits impact the way we perform and help us to know how to guide others through challenges in order to meet goals. Here’s how they help in day to day operations.
Resilience: Helps to overcome challenges and maintain focus on long-term goals.
Decisiveness: Allows us to be quick and effective when making decisions. It’s crucial in difficult situations that need to be addressed immediately.
Inspiration: When we are inspiring, we are able to motivate and energize others, driving them to achieve their best.
Accountability: Encourages responsibility and reliability which can often lead to higher performance and consistency
Confidence: Helps instill trust in others, encouraging them to take risks and be innovative and creative.
Adaptability: Allows us to deal with change successfully and stay resilient in tough situations
Communication: Being able to communicate well, allows for clear understanding. It improves teamwork and reduces confusion.
Vision: With vision we can provide direction and purpose to others. We can inspire them and guide them to work towards the common goals.
Empathy: Empathy leads to higher morale and collaboration. By truly understanding and being compassionate, we can foster strong relationships and create a supportive environment.
Integrity: With integrity, we build trust and credibility so that others are willing to follow and support us. It is essential for good leadership.
How can these traits be developed?
Practice self-awareness, understand how others perceive you, how they feel around you. Ask them for feedback, but consider it. Most important—-be willing to learn from others.
Let’s look at some ways to develop these traits.
Resilience
Maintain a positive outlook and focus on solutions.
Build a support network of mentors.
Develop coping strategies to use during times of stress or setbacks.
2. Decisiveness
Gather the information you need quickly.
Weigh the pros and cons —- trust your instincts.
Learn from previous experience to refine your decision-making skills.
3. Inspiration
Lead by example and be passionate about your work.
Share your vision and how it benefits everyone.
Recognize and celebrate the achievements of others, to motivate them.
4. Accountability
Take responsibility for your actions and decisions
Set clear expectations for yourself and others
Create a culture of accountability by addressing issues promptly.
5. Confidence
Build self-awareness. Know yourself, understand your strengths and weaknesses.
Set and achieve small goals to boost self-efficacy (belief in yourself).
Seek mentorship and guidance to gain new perspectives and ideas.
6. Adaptability
Embrace change and view it as an opportunity to grow.
Stay flexible and open to new ideas and ways of doing things.
Develop problem-solving skills to handle unexpected problems.
7. Communication
Enhance verbal and written skills by practicing or taking classes.
Seek feedback on your way of communicating and adjust accordingly.
Create an open dialogue environment where others feel comfortable sharing.
8. Vision
Set clear, long-term goals and communicate them successfully.
Stay informed about industry trends and innovations.
Encourage creativity and strategic thinking in your team.
9. Empathy
Listen actively to others without judgement.
Show genuine interest in the viewpoints of others.
Develop emotional intelligence through reflection and mindfulness.
10. Integrity
Practice honesty in all interactions
Align your actions with your values and be transparent.
Admit mistakes and learn from them.
Ultimately the key to effective leadership is consistent effort, reflection, and a willingness to grow.
Have a good weekend!
Dr. Aguilar
