Leadership is as much an art as it is a science or a set of practical skills (that said, behavioral science and practical skills are indeed important).
Above all else, however, the character of a leader is the preeminent priority.
With that thought in mind, I am always on the lookout for a concise summary that delineates character in a manner that provides a balance of perspective. This week I ran across a list of leadership imperatives by Jim Rohn, an American entrepreneur, author, and motivational speaker.
He described effective leadership-character as follows:
Be strong, but not rude;
Be kind, but not weak;
Be bold, but not bully;
Be thoughtful, but not lazy;
Be humble, but not timid;
Be proud, but not arrogant;
Have humor, but without folly.
That list is a lucid and thoughtful summary of the desirable qualities of an effective leadership personality; particularly as it applies to the personal character of those who aspire to lead others.
What character qualities do you admire in leadership? Which qualities are most important? To you? To others?