We may be inclined to think of the daring and heroic characters when we think about leaders. The army’s commander is in the trenches, leading the advance and bearing the brunt of the opposing attacks. After all, that’s what it takes to be a leader in comic books and movies!
Of course, for the vast majority of us, this is not the case. The front lines of battle for most managers means addressing business and personnel challenges on the daily.
But it doesn’t mean you can sit back and relax. Being brave and heroic is still highly essential. It’s only that this bravery will take on a new shape.
Action-Oriented Leadership
Leaders who take action are the most effective. When we lead by example, we establish a positive example for our team and encourage them to follow suit. As a result, we avoid one of the worst qualities a leader can have: hypocrisy.
Being accused of hypocrisy is one of the few things that will instantly stoke doubt and resentment in your ranks.
Nobody enjoys being asked to do something they don’t want to do because they believe their superior is either reluctant or afraid to do it. You’re in control, and that comes with a lot of responsibilities. Giving your team the worst duties and not participating in them yourself is an abuse of power.
Decisiveness
Leading by example also entails being determined. It entails being able to make a timely decision and being ready to follow through on that decision.
Many less experienced managers make the error of postponing or avoiding decision making. Their concern is that they would make the wrong decision and lose their employees’ respect as a result.
Indecisiveness, on the other hand, is worse than making an unwise or wrong decision. Indecisiveness makes you appear weak or incompetent. While taking action may have negative effects, deferring a decision will always have negative implications.
On the other hand, seeing someone who takes swift decisions and doesn’t second-guess themselves is almost always motivating. Your team members will gain confidence as a result of your decisiveness. It fosters a culture failing forward and empowers other to take ownership of mistakes.
Responsibility
What does decisiveness have to do with courage?
Simply put, it indicates you’re ready to take on the responsibilities that come with being a leader. Being a leader does not imply that you get to tell people what to do or that you get to take all the credit.
Being a leader entails taking charge of the group. It entails safeguarding them so that they may accomplish their best work. It entails making decisions and accepting responsibility for the consequences. We only delay making decisions when we don’t want to look bad… And that, in the end, is a sign of cowardice.
Stoicism
Finally, being a fearless leader entails taking the fall when things go wrong. If you make a mistake, it’s critical to not only own up to it, but also to remain calm and composed when confronted by your superiors or when the business is on the verge of failing.
All you need are these; certainty of judgment in the present moment; action for the common good in the present moment; and a attitude of gratitude in the present moment for anything that comes your way.’
Marcus Aurelius, Meditations, 9.6
In a crisis, it’s also critical to maintain calm. When things appear to be going poorly for the team, this means leading by example. Prevent your team from becoming panicked. Keep your cool and you’ll be able to deal with the situation effectively.
How to Be the Leader They’re Looking For
What is the source of all this bravery and stoicism? If you don’t have it naturally, how can you get it?
Is it a case of putting on a tough exterior?
Not in the least.
Being a truly great leader comes from having the right priorities. It means forgetting yourself and, instead, focusing on the goals of your organization and the happiness and comfort of your team. When you do that, it’s easy to be a courageous leader.
Self-Reflection Questions:
1. How can I balance being a leader with being a follower?
2. What can I do to make my leadership skills stronger?
3. Who can help me become a better leader?
Catalyst Consulting 