Je NE Sais Quoi: Part II
Julius R Sims II, MAEd
I actively help leaders spread their wings | Digital-First Leader | Advocate | Executive | Founder of Ascend Leadership Consulting
Have you ever met a leader who always seemed to bring something interesting to the table?
They dress differently: While everyone is wearing jeans or sneakers, they are wearing a pink pantsuit.
They interact weirdly: While everyone is drinking at the bar, they are in the middle of the dance floor, encouraging others to come along.
In a group of decision-makers and change agents, a few always look and sound different. They have a certain je ne sais quoi. That means "I don't know what" in French.
Simply put, they're unicorns. Unicorns are leaders with captivating qualities.
Unicorns elevate themselves above the norm.
So, let's talk about them:
Lifelong Learner
Unicorns never stop learning. They may or may not be in school, but their nose is always in a book. If they're not reading up on something, they're listening to a podcast or watching a documentary.
If nothing else, they are learning socially. Unicorns pay attention to behaviors and cues, intending to learn their surroundings.
For most, knowledge is power. For unicorns, knowledge is perpetual.
This constant pursuit of knowledge contributes to their adaptability and innovative thinking.
领英推荐
Different
Nothing fancy to say here. Unicorns are just plain different. These leaders embrace their distinctiveness, turning their uniqueness into a superpower.
As a result, unicorn leaders become catalysts for positive change. They embrace diversity of thought and foster a culture where everyone's strengths are recognized and valued.
Develops Others
Here is the ultimate trait of a unicorn:
They develop others.
Iron sharpens iron; horn recognizes horn. These leaders know how to stand alone, but they prefer company. They recognize the value of collaboration. This balance signifies their strength as independent thinkers who also appreciate the power of teamwork.
Unicorns help develop other unicorns. Point blank. Period.
As I shared in part one, unicorns rise above the rest. Leaders change the game, but unicorn leaders create a whole new one.
The impact of unicorn leaders goes beyond immediate success; they leave a lasting legacy of transformation.
"It's not about being noticed; it's about being remembered."