Leadership is an interesting topic to discuss and explore, but identifying and developing one’s own style of leading is essential to our present time. We happen to live in an environment where we are told to become a leader through doing this and that. Some researchers have come up with their theories, or rather recipes, to claim superiority to their own mindset. We are being told to indulge ourselves in all these newly formulated leadership styles with no regard to our own uniqueness.
In this VUCA (Volatile, Uncertain, Complex & Ambiguous) environment that we deal with, each individual should aspire to become a leader, formally or informally, in order to make a difference in this world. But one wonders: How am I to accomplish this? Which leadership suits my identity the most? Should I copy another innovative leader?
Frankly, it’s not an easy path to walk through. It’s a lifetime journey that requires rigorous efforts and constant modifications. You cannot rely on picking a leadership style off a shelf and step into someone else’s suit!
Individuality must be considered and respected. Each one of us is unique and functions in a different way. Each one of us is influenced by the way we were brought up, by our beliefs, by our values, and by our experiences. Therefore, we must look within ourselves to find the best leader that we can be.
Here are 7 steps that should help you determine and form your own leadership style:
We all aspire to someone. Followership is almost as important as leadership. By following and observing an innovative mind, you can develop, learn and apply.
The path to leadership mastery requires deep self-awareness. Learn about yourself in every chance you get. You should ask for feedback every chance you get, so you may assess your progress and reflect on your:
Understanding other people is the key to communication. If you believe that you are unique yourself, then the same certainly applies to others. Cater to their needs, strengths and weaknesses, and respect their different beliefs and values. Use their strengths and weaknesses to complement yours.
Situations differ as much as people do. Reconsider each incident as a unique event, and try to reflect wisely on past experiences. Study the environment around you. Know the opportunities and risks of this environment in order for you to make proper decisions.
Never be reluctant to learn something new. Every situation provides a learning opportunity. Invest more time in your growth so it would reflect on the outcome of your journey.
Help others grow unconditionally. Collective effort is always considered the best way to aspire for prosperity and a better future for yourself and for others.
As long as your efforts reflect a purpose and a meaning to your life, you should be able to dedicate your time more easily. Invest in the big picture so you may add to the greater good that you aspire to. There is always something greater than yourself; so start working on it early on!
Leadership is not an easy task, but it’s something that must be done – and done properly. You can lead at work, at your home or even in your neighborhood. It’s not always about claiming power, but rather having the courage to make a difference. Remember to lead in your own unique way in order to create a better future for yourself and others. Now, enjoy the journey, and never stop learning.
Great read, Zahi. My favorite line, "It’s not always about claiming power, but rather having the courage to make a difference. "
Most organizations are approaching AI the wrong way. They are treating it like a tool to deploy, a system to install…
Why AI Governance Belongs to Leaders in the Boardroom In my earlier article on the 6Qs of Strategic Leadership, I wrote…
In a world where technology evolves at breakneck speed, Zoom has transformed from a pandemic necessity into a visionary…
The 6Qs Framework: A Practical Guide to Building Winning Strategy Being a strategic leader isn’t easy. And to be…
Leadership is evolving. We no longer consider it as one individual with a strong, authoritarian personality.
In today’s work environment, there’re more demands for leaders than ever; leaders to lead organizations, teams, and…
Immense studies and researches on leadership have been going on for decades. Such endeavors have increased tremendously…
Roland Heifetz and Marty Linsky introduce a rather witty metaphor, Balcony and the Dance Floor, in their book…
Are you a good manager? How do you know? Being a good manager is easier said than done. Some, enjoy holding the title…
Recently, I’ve been getting bombarded by marketing messages from people in my LinkedIn network. Even though I would…