Leaders aren’t born, they are made: the golden triangle of leadership

As the famous American football coach Vince Lombardi once said: “Leaders are not born, they are made. And like anything else, they are made through hard work.”

The shift from being a mere boss to becoming a true leader is transformative and critical for success in any workplace. A great leader does not only direct his team towards goals but also inspires and motivates them creating an environment where every member feels valued and engaged. Many people see leadership as an elusive quality that is reserved for a few individuals; however, this myth of leaders being born limits many people’s potential. In reality, leadership is a skill that can be developed and refined over time.

This belief that leaders have special qualities from birth has been persistent across cultures suggesting that some people possess a "natural gift" for leadership while others simply do not have it. However, this view underestimates the significance of learning, practice, and personal growth in becoming an effective leader.

Years of research and practice across various organizations have led to the identification of a valuable model for developing leadership: The Golden Triangle of Leadership. This model consists of four key attitudes organized into three vertices and a center which are essential for achieving team commitment and reaching objectives.

Vertices of the Triangle:

• Define the Focus: A successful leader has clear vision with well-defined goals. It is important to communicate expectations and objectives to the team so that each member understands their role and how their contributions impact on overall outcome. A defined focus helps keep the team aligned and motivated reducing uncertainty thereby enhancing effectiveness.
• Develop Talents and Make People Feel Useful: An effective leader is committed to understanding strengths among his or her team members as well as working towards developing their talents. Recognizing individual skills through training support improves performance as well as strengthens the entire team.
• Make People Feel Important: Recognition and appreciation are central to effective leadership. A leader who listens to his or her team, acknowledges achievements, values efforts makes each member feel appreciated and relevant rather than just a number. Genuine recognition and respect are key to maintaining high morale and strong commitment.

Center of the Triangle:

Be a Role Model and Influence Positively: Leaders must set an example by demonstrating consistency between their words and actions. While no one is perfect, a good leader works with passion and maintains a positive attitude that inspires others. Authenticity and enthusiasm are contagious and can significantly influence the work environment, motivating team members to contribute enthusiastically.

Leadership is not a superpower reserved for a few but a skill that can be learned and developed. The Golden Triangle of Leadership offers valuable framework for those who want to grow as leaders. By defining clear focus, developing talents, recognizing the value of each team member, acting with passion and consistency anyone can become an effective leader.

Remember, leadership is an ongoing journey. The key is to remain open to learning, adapting, and constantly improving oneself. Move beyond being just a boss and take the step toward authentic and transformative leadership.