Traits and Me

Different leaders have different traits. For that very reason, some leaders fail and some leaders flourish. Even great leaders all have different traits. While some may overlap, they all have very distinguished qualities that make them who they are.

A trait that I admire very much in a leader is integrity: doing the right thing when no one is looking and/or for nothing in return. Even if you’re not a leader, I truly believe that having integrity will serve you well in becoming one. Whether you’re intending to lead or not, people will be drawn to follow someone who is genuine, reliable, and honest.

Leading by example is another trait I admire. To me, to lead by example goes beyond setting examples for others to follow. It means to also not asking someone to do something you wouldn’t yourself. To fully understand what it takes to do the jobs of your employees and empathize. Having this quality can really bridge the gap between, for example, a manager and his/her employees. It doesn’t make someone less of a boss, but more relatable, more personable, and more of a leader.

The most significant trait of a leader, one that all leaders should possess in my opinion, is selflessness. Having the ability to step back and let your team thrive is vital in achieving and maintaining success of an organization. Letting others take credit where credit is due, allowing freedom to let ideas prosper, and creating other leaders is what a selfless leader is.