What is Leadership, and why does it matter?
Geri Hansen, MSN, RN, NI-BC
Director Inpatient and EHR Business Applications at Nebraska Medicine
Leadership is the ability to inspire, motivate, and guide others towards a common goal. It is not just a position or a title, but a skill that can be learned and developed. Leadership matters because it influences the performance, engagement, and well-being of the people around you. Whether you are a manager, a team member, or a solo entrepreneur, you can practice leadership in your everyday life.
How to be a leader?
There is no one-size-fits-all formula for leadership, but there are some common traits and behaviors that successful leaders share. Here are some of them:
·???????? Have a clear vision and communicate it effectively. Leaders know where they want to go and why, and they can articulate their vision to others in a compelling way.
·???????? Empower and support others. Leaders don't micromanage or dictate, but they delegate, coach, and mentor. They give others the autonomy, resources, and feedback they need to grow and excel.
·???????? Lead by example. Leaders don't just talk the talk, but they walk the walk. They model the values, attitudes, and actions they expect from others. They are consistent, authentic, and accountable.
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·???????? Embrace change and innovation. Leaders are not afraid of challenges or failures, but they see them as opportunities to learn and improve. They are open to new ideas and perspectives, and they encourage creativity and experimentation.
·???????? Build trust and collaboration. Leaders foster a culture of trust and respect, where people feel safe to share their opinions, ideas, and concerns. They also promote teamwork and collaboration, where people work together towards a common goal.
A common "mistake" that I see leaders doing is focusing on building trust, but not always recognizing what they are doing to take it away. Here are some behaviors that you may be doing that take away all of your hard work:
Leadership is not a destination, but a journey. It is a skill that can be improved with practice, feedback, and reflection. Leadership matters because it can make a positive difference in your life and the lives of others. So, what are you waiting for? Start your leadership journey today!