1. They Recognize Individual Contribution
Recognizing and meeting the needs of those around you is one of the most critical areas that separate good from great leaders. The people around you at work or on your team do not exist to make you great. If that were true we would see others as stepping stones to our success. No, we, as leaders exist to make them great valuing people over program.
Dear children, we must show love through actions that are sincere, not through empty words. 1 John 3:18 GWT
Sometimes words are not enough. Give a gift or a hand written note. Something that requires intentional thought and preparation. Something that says, “I was thinking about you earlier in the week.” Let them know they are a forethought, not an afterthought.
2. They Incite Those Around Them
Incite requires inspiration, it’s that simple. Motivating yourself and others with a compelling vision is not a one time event, it’s a lifestyle and great leaders know how to do it well.
And let us consider and give attentive, continuous care to watching over one another, studying how we may stir up (stimulate and incite) to love and helpful deeds and noble activities. Hebrews 10:24 AMP
3. They Persuade Others
Notice I said, persuasive, not political. They motivate instead of manipulate. What’s the difference between the two? Manipulation is when I use my persuasive ability to get you to do something that only benefits me. Motivation is when I use my persuasive ability to move us both toward a common goal or initiative.
The wise in heart will be called discerning, And sweetness of speech increases persuasiveness. Proverbs 16:21NASB
4. They Are Empathetic
When you can sense others’ emotions and respond with empathy instead of apathy you are making a step from good to great and not just as a leader but as a person.
When I am with those who are oppressed, I share their oppression so that I might bring them to Christ. Yes, I try to find common ground with everyone so that I might bring them to Christ. 1 Corinthians 9:22 NLT
5. They Make Those Around Them Better
You can call it development, guidance, input, feedback but in the end the great leader has an ability to make those around them better. They encourage, equip and empower others to reach their potential. They make everyone around them better.
Therefore encourage one another, and build up one another, just as you also are doing. 1 Thessalonians 5:11 NASB
Questions:
Which one of the above 5 is your greatest strength?
Which one of the above 5 do you need to work on most?
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