7 Key Truths That The Best Leaders Live By

Diversity in #leadership makes a world of difference. There’s diversity of knowledge, diversity of thought, diversity of values, diversity of perspectives, diversity of interests, diversity of attitudes, and so on.

As a result, diversity in leadership fosters better relationships—at all levels of an organization—and it becomes key to superior performance and profitability. Above all, the best way to lead is by genuinely engaging the mind and the heart—this never fails.

The best leaders in history have left us an invaluable legacy to learn from. A leader—whether born or made—must possess a strong will to lead seriously, responsibly, and courageously.?#Leadership&Management

The best leaders possess the ability to shape history and the quality to change lives one action at a time. They know that leadership is for people and about people. They are selfless and completely committed to leaving the world better than how they found it. Their actions consistently align with their words—they honor their promises. This type of leadership is rare nowadays, though there are a few leaders who embody it.

These are 7 truths that the best leaders live by and so can you:

1. The best leaders give respect and earn trust.

Common sense isn't always common practice for many leaders. Common leaders believe that respect must be earned and the best leaders believe that respect must be given to everyone—from the poorest to the richest. They treat their people with dignity and courtesy—and when people feel respected, they're naturally inclined to trusting them.

“If you treat people right they will treat you right … ninety percent of the time.”?Franklin D. Roosevelt

2. The best leaders have noble intentions and legitimate reasons to lead.

They have no hidden agendas and no ulterior motives. Why? Because?they stand up for what they believe in and don't compromise their values. They're committed to eradicating dishonesty, corruption, and unethical practices. Their motto is to lead purposely and authentically, having a humble attitude and a disposition serve their people.

"Life's most persistent and urgent question is, 'What are you doing for others? "Martin Luther King, Jr.

3. The best leaders communicate tactfully.

They communicate with diplomacy, grace, and assertiveness. They understand that tact means saying the right thing at the right time. They practice active listening, use empathy, and emotional intelligence to connect with their people. Their good character—integrity, honesty, courage, and loyalty—is evident in the way they communicate.

"Wise men speak because they have something to say; Fools because they have to say something."?Plato

4. The best leaders show up and are approachable.

They are open-minded, reliable, consistent, and make themselves available to their people. They don't use their power to control others, nor are they arrogant. They are aware that being present and approachable is key to fostering good relationships and creating an environment of trust where everyone feels safe, respected, and valued.

"The most powerful leadership tool you have is your own personal example." John Wooden.

5. The best leaders take calculated risks that other leaders do not.

They are courageous and combat the abuse of power and injustice. These leaders stand up for their people and speak truth without fear or hesitation at all times. Common leaders tend to remain silent about what afflicts their people for the fear of losing popularity or simply because they are manipulated by others whose interests are selfish.

"Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter." Martin Luther King, Jr.?

6. The best leaders identify and meet the needs of others.

They?care about their people and treat them with respect. They make an effort to get to know them, take the time to talk with them and listen to them, too. Listening is a skill that they have mastered as they know how powerful it is. By listening to their people, the best leaders are able to identify their people's needs and meet those needs as best possible.

"How wonderful it is that nobody need wait a single moment before starting to improve the world."?Anne Frank

7. The best leaders create other leaders.

They recognize the talents in others and provide them with the necessary tools to further develop them and to equip them to lead the right way. The best leaders are multipliers of talent and bring out the best in others as well—this is how they can lead effectively. They give everyone a chance to grow—they don't play favoritism.

"True Leaders don't create followers, they create more leaders."?Ziad K. Abdelnour

Do you know any leaders that live by these 7 truths? Please share in the comments section below. Thank you!

Other Posts by Ivette K. Caballero

What is Leadership?

Leaders: Respect is Given, not Earned

How to Identify Selfish Leaders

7 Great Habits of Highly Successful People

Best Advice: Never Forget Where You Came From

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