What Sets Authentic Leaders Apart?

A certain level of confidence and self-assuredness is necessary for effective leadership. However, the impact of ego on leadership can be both significant and detrimental. Leaders with unchecked ego have a sense of self-importance and a constant need for validation and recognition.

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When leaders are driven by their ego, it clouds their sense of judgment leading to poor decision-making, favoritism, and often a lack of accountability – ever hear statements like this “I said what I said”. ?They tend to be more focused on personal gain, recognition, and maintaining power rather than making decisions in the best interest of the organization or team.

Leaders with big egos often dismiss the ideas and opinions of others, fail to listen actively, and can be resistant to feedback. This in effect fuels a toxic work environment, where those unable to bootlick become unmotivated and disengaged. ?Effective leadership requires collaboration, empathy, and the ability to bring out the best in others, which is difficult when ego takes center stage.

Ego-driven leaders often struggle to adapt and learn from their mistakes. It is their way or the highway. They maintain superior arguments, are infallible and highly perceptive which prevents them from acknowledging their own shortcomings or considering alternative perspectives.

In contrast, leaders with the ability to keep their ego in check tend to be more humble, open-minded, and focused on the collective success of the team. They show willingness to listen to diverse viewpoints, ready to consider an alternative perspective, admit their mistakes, and empower others to contribute their best.

Effective leaders recognize the importance of self-awareness, can regulate their emotions with humility, and the able to put the needs of the organization and team above their own ego. As a result, they create an environment that fosters productivity, fosters a culture of trust, allow creativity & innovation, and the overall development of their team members.

Be ready to switch from comments like saying “I did it”, “I made it happen”, thanks to me, it wouldn’t have been successful” to “my team and I”, “we did it together”, “we made it happen, guys”, “Thanks team”. Through the learning curves, the growth takes place for both the leader and the subordinates.

In conclusion, whenever you find yourself tempted to compare higher to others, yes it happens to us all, remember to peel off the ego and prioritise collective success over personal recognition. The ability to keep one’s ego in check, other than functional competence sets great leaders apart.

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