10 Essential Lessons Every Great Leader Must Learn

Think about the difference between a great “leader” and just a meh “manager”. The words are sometimes used interchangeably, but they are light years apart. We all strive to become better versions of ourselves, but often don’t know how. 

Here are 10 rules that will help you become a great leader.

1. Be authentic to who you are.

The best leaders are comfortably insecure in their own mind. "Imposter" syndrome. They know they certainly have strengths, but really focus on every detail of their weaknesses to constantly improve. Determine what makes you tick, and in return, be better able to lead others.

2. Create and empower your Avengers unit.

Is Captain America the strongest marvel superhero? Absolutely not. But he does lead the team and empowers the heroes stronger then himself to compete at the top of their own license. Don’t smother them with your ego or insecurities.

3. Be brutally honest with your team.

We get it. It’s awkward to have tough conversations. Like Eminem said, “palms are sweaty, knees weak, arms are heavy.” However, as a leader, your team needs an environment where you can be painfully with beneficial feedback on how to improve. Just make sure it’s bi-directional, seeking out honest feedback from peers or mentors.

4. Don’t waste time on the petty stuff.

You cannot control time. Or weather. Or someone else’s thoughts. You also don’t have time to do everything. Focus on what you can actually influence, hire good people to help, and go to bed with a clear conscience.

5. Find some meaning outside of work.

You’re big time now in your own industry. However, don’t fall into the trap that professional success = a fulfilled life. To be a balanced human, make sure you have something outside work. Family. Friends. Exercise. Reading. Anything that adds joy that is at least partially unrelated to help balance.

6. Take a second, then react.

Life is chaotic. Things happen. Be stoic when it does. Try to remain calm when faced with adversity and always act according to your personal values. Don’t blow up in public if you don’t have a plan to remedy the situation. Lead, don’t pour gasoline on the fire.

7. Dream bigger and bolder.

Vision and purpose are the only things that reliably motivate team members when the going gets tough. Therefore, find a goal that is worth aspiring towards and leaves the world a little better off for the next generation.

8. Never ever ever ever gossip.

As the leader, you’re head of the tribe. Don’t mistake your role for one that can manipulate or participate in office gossip. Be above the fray. Never talk poorly about another person that you wouldn’t tell directly to their face. In fact, only tell them directly to their face. Your FOMO at the water cooler is your burden to bear as a leader.

9. Treat your employees better than your customers.

We’ve all heard the phrase a thousand times, “the customer is always right”. Except sometimes the customer is wrong and it hurts your team. I’ve never understood how companies can have great brands and customer loyalty, yet treat their employees awful. Treat both groups with respect based on your value system, but remember, only one wakes up every single morning to help your company grow.

10. Have fun. Be fun.

Nobody likes a curmudgeon. Life isn’t all rainbows and butterflies. Being a leader can be stressful at times. What separates a great leader from the rest is the perspective to enjoy the journey, even the tough times. The more you have fun and make lemonade, the happier your team members will be!

What's the biggest lesson you have learnt as a leader? Share it in the comments!

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