According to Napoleon Hill, the author of the classic Think and Grow Rich, the following are the major attributes of leadership:
- Unwavering courage based upon knowledge of self and of one’s occupation
- Self control
- A keen sense of justice
- Definiteness of decision
- Definiteness of plans
- The habit of doing more than paid for
- A pleasing personality
- Sympathy and understanding
- Mastery of detail
- Willingness to assume full responsibility
- Cooperation
The context for this list is Mr. Hill’s discussion of the axiom that leadership is a privilege given by those who follow. If any of the above attributes are lacking, it will be difficult for a person to respect or follow their leader.
Choose to be a great leader by making the effort to integrate these attributes into your leadership.