It is hard to become a leader through job titles alone; you must earn it through actions, words, and insights that positively impact others. As Steve Jobs famously stated, leadership entails inspiring people to achieve unimaginable things. Renowned people like Dr. Martin Luther King and Mahatma Gandhi demonstrate that leadership doesn’t need a formal position or title. The two inspired others to follow their lead thanks to their commitment to a common goal. According to Vijay Eswaran, a leader should have four inherent qualities that must be inborn or learned through experience.
Taking Ownership
Leaders are distinguished by their willingness to take the initiative in their lives and circumstances. They don’t settle for a mediocre existence and actively work to enhance themselves and their surroundings. Also, they don’t let others command their path or let hurdles stop them from progressing. Vijay Eswaran says a true leaders must be responsible for those around them and the operating environment.
Purpose-Driven
Great leaders are motivated by a purpose that transcends their aspirations. For instance, Mahatma Gandhi’s philosophy of compassion, non-violence, and truth was key to his life’s purpose. Indeed, he summed up his life by saying, “My life is my message.” Whenever leaders have a purpose that extends their interests, others can identify with it and be inspired. Vijay Eswaran denotes that a leader’s purpose is deeply rooted in their identity.
Empowering
When leaders inspire others to improve themselves and contribute to the broader community, they impart an empowering sense of self-belief. Self-belief connects individuals from their current position to where they can and should be. Vijay Eswaran suggests that influential leaders understand how to empower and uplift others to believe in themselves.
Caring
An exceptional leader has genuine concern and cares for their people. A leader who always displays compassion towards others is not seeking praise. Instead, the leader has an inherent trait that others can feel and perceive when in the leader’s presence. This trait is evident in the warmth and tone of their voice.
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