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In my humble opinion to become a great leader one must learn how to serve before he or she can lead. I believe history shows us that the greatest leaders were all servants before they were elevated to leadership. This gives those who are following a sense of comfort knowing that their leader has been where they were at one point of time in their life.

It is easier for the people to put their faith in a man or woman who has paid their dues. They can relate to this man or woman and this creates a bond between the one who is leading and those who are yielding to that authority.

The irony is that many who desire leadership are not ready for that role, and the ones who do not desire to lead are most likely ready for leadership. With that being said here are a few defining qualities that I see in a great leader.

Leaders have vision. They have the ability to imagine hypothetical decisions and have an idea of what the cause and effect of that decision will be before hand. This gives them wisdom in figuring out which decision to make for the people.

They have an ability to inspire and motivate others to greater heights. They seem to have an innate ability to see the gifts in other people and bring those gifts out of them. With this gift they help others become who they are meant to be. This in return makes the group he or she is leading stronger than others could ever imagine.

A leader is also defined by those he or she surrounds them with. The leader is also open to constructive criticism and listens to others thoughts, views and ideas. They themselves have wise council. They do not make rash decisions by jumping to conclusions. They take all things into account before making a final decision.

A leader should also be able to articulate and express their thoughts and ideas clearly to the people. They posses an infectious positive attitude and their passion gives strength to those who are weary from the grind.

They lead by example. They would never ask of someone something they would not do or have not done themselves. They lead with integrity and honesty. Their egos are in check and their pride has been tempered by trial and fire. This gives them strength to not be led by strong emotions or feelings that can blind them to the truth. Control over their emotions is the most powerful trait of a good leader.

There should not be a big difference in their demeanor in the hardest of times or the best of times. This makes them a pillar of strength for the people.

Last but not least, leaders are self confident people with strong convictions.

Learn more about this author, David Samuel.
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