Action is Essential
There are those who lead and those who lead well. What is the defining difference? A great leader who stands out from the rest and inspires the people they work with is one who focusses on action. Eloquent speeches and grand plans are undeniably important, but mere words and empty promises do not produce exceptional results. An admirable leader is one who is committed to following through on their promises by translating their words into actions.
An Extraordinary Leader
Exemplifies Integrity
A great leader must exemplify integrity in order to maintain the respect of the people who look up to them. A leader who repeatedly breaks promises and is not true to their word will quickly lose the respect and trust of those around them. A great leader is one who consistently delivers what they promise through their actions, taking accountability while also offering recognition to those who have played a part in their successes.
Inspires Others
Another characteristic of a great leader is the capability to inspire those around them. With strong leadership and positive outcomes at the core of everything they do, a great leader will naturally motivate others to work harder in order to achieve their goals. John Quincy Adams, the sixth president of the United States, is quoted as saying, “If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more, you are a leader.”
Makes Wise Decisions
The ability to make wise decisions and the dedication to follow through on these decisions is an important skill for any great leader. Anyone can make decisions and plans, but without wisdom behind these decisions, and measures put in place to ensure their completion, the potential for success is limited.
Demonstrates Creativity
Creativity is another defining aspect of great leadership. The ability to find creative, perhaps even unconventional, solutions to problems is critical to a leader’s success. When the task at hand seems insurmountable, it is the creative, innovative leader who will emerge victorious.
Communicates Effectively
Being able to effectively communicate visions and strategies is a talent that great leaders must possess. A leader’s capability to not only clearly convey plans and courses of action, but also to actively model how they should be implemented, ensures that their team can put their full trust and support in them.
Actions Define a Truly Great Leader
If a leader’s focus is on the glory of leadership, and for delivering emphatic speeches with little follow through, it is only a matter of time before their teams recognise that these are nothing but empty words. A superior leader exemplifies integrity, creativity, and wisdom, with the ability to inspire and communicate effectively. Beyond these character traits however, there is also a greater need for a strong leader to actively follow through with their plans, visions and strategies. That “actions speak louder than words” is a well-known phrase for good reason, and in becoming a true leader, this advice is well-heeded on the path to success.
