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             29 March, 2024
 

    
Category:  Articles » Self Improvement » Leadership

 

Leadership - Any Takers?

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2007-07-09 11:13:20     
Article by Ray Tamayo

Leadership Are You Up For The Task?

At one time I thought leadership was one of the greatest accomplishments that anyone could achieve, I was memorized by great men and women who were able to get in front of others and share that which is so dear to them, their visions dreams, even those who could live to speak God's written Word with clarity and purpose. I was very in love with the idea of leading. Until I had the opportunity to do it then it became one of the biggest chores that I could have ever experienced. Remember If you are thinking of leading you really need to be clear because people do not usually see your weak side and things can be very rough and you could end up hurting yourself along with others. It is truly a calling to lead others. Be up for the task, be ready for the good fight, and stay humble on your way to the top because a fall could kill somebody.

When you are at work, don't get frustrated because things don't seem to be happening the way you think they are supposed to be? You see people milling around but nothing gets accomplished. And in the daily hustle and bustle, do you feel that your goals remain just that - goals. Then maybe its time for you to stand up and do something about it.

Most people are content just to stand around listening for orders. And it isn't unusual to adopt a follow-the-leader mentality. But maybe, somewhere inside of you, you feel the desire to make things happen - to be the head, not the tail. Then maybe leadership just suits you fine.

Some people believe that great leaders are made, not born. Yes, it may be true that some people are born with natural talents. However, without practice, without drive, without enthusiasm, and without experience, there can be no true development in leadership.

You must also remember that good leaders are continually working and studying to improve their natural skills. This takes a commitment to constantly improve in whatever endeavor a person chooses.

This is probably the most misconceived thought by the common or those that follow someone else. They feel a leader should always be on their toes and at their beck and call. Or they think leaders know everything there is to know about a situation. Leaders are always looking for others to promote because they know it's lonely at the top so I need to take someone with me without the thought of thinking that someone is going to take their place.

First of all, let's define leadership. To be a leader, one must be able to influence others to accomplish a goal, or an objective. He contributes to the organization and cohesion of a group. Influence nothing more nothing less.

Contrary to what most people believe, leadership is not about power. It is not about harassing people or driving them using fear. It is about encouraging others towards the goal of the organization. It is putting everyone on the same page and helping them see the big picture of the organization. You must be a leader not a boss. Although it is usually taken the other way around.

First of all, you have to get people to follow you. How is this accomplished?

People follow others when they see a clear sense of purpose. People will only follow you if they see that you know where you are going. Remember that bumper sticker? The one that says, don't follow me, I'm lost too? The same holds true for leadership. If you yourself do not know where you're headed to, chances are people will not follow you at all.

You yourself must know the vision of the organization. Having a clear sense of hierarchy, knowing who the bosses are, who to talk to, the organization's goals and objectives, and how the organization works is the only way to show others you know what you are doing.

Being a leader is not about what you make others do. It's about who you are, what you know, and what you do. You are a reflection of what you're subordinates must be.

Studies have shown that one other bases of good leadership is the trust and confidence your subordinates have of you. If they trust you they will go through hell and high water for you and for the organization.

Trust and confidence is built on good relationships, trustworthiness, and high ethics. This is a lacking factor in most leaders today.

The way you deal with your people, and the relationships you build will lay the foundation for the strength of your group. The stronger your relationship, the stronger their trust and confidence is in your capabilities.

Once you have their trust and confidence, you may now proceed to communicate the goals and objectives you are to undertake.

Communication is a very important key to good leadership. Without this you can not be a good leader. The knowledge and technical expertise you have must be clearly imparted to other people.

Also, you can not be a good leader and unless you have good judgment. You must be able to assess situations, weigh the pros and cons of any decision, and actively seek out a solution.

It is this judgment that your subordinates will come to rely upon. Therefore, good decision-making is vital to the success of your organization.

Leaders are not do-it-all heroes. You should not claim to know everything, and you should not rely upon your skills alone.

You should recognize and take advantage of the skills and talents your subordinates have. Only when you come to this realization will you be able to work as one cohesive unit.

Remember being a leader takes a good deal of work and time. It is not learned overnight. Remember, also, that it is not about just you. It is about you and the people around you.

So, do you have the drive and the desire to serve required of leaders? Do you have the desire to work cooperatively with other people? Then start now. Take your stand and be leader today.

It's the greatest of all things to be a servant.

Ray Tamayo

Ray Tamayo ... Has gone to become a Life Success Consultant and has talked to marketing groups and small business owners. He has been successful in real estate investments and has created several streams of income through his entrepreneurship. He has free book studies with the book "Think and Grow Rich" and has brought many to understand the "Secret" that Napolean Hill brought forth through his 20 years of study.

Specialized in: Leadership - Takers
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