It’s important to recognize that leadership doesn’t hinge on perfection.

In the ever-changing realm of leadership, it’s imperative to cultivate a dynamic array of qualities that not only steer us but also ignite inspiration and empower those in our sphere of influence.

Leadership isn’t a destination attained overnight; it’s an unceasing journey of personal development and refinement, a vocation and a way of life.

Let’s delve into 10 defining qualities that set a dynamic and transformative leader apart from the ordinary:

  1. A leader must be able to take criticism ― No person in a position of authority will be immune from it. We must learn to sort out the constructive, from which we can learn, from the malicious, which we must ignore.
  2. A leader must learn to withstand adversity ― Things will not always go well. Failures will happen. A good leader will bounce back.
  3. A leader must be able to delegate authority ― He or she must be able to give up power, to trust those under him/her.
  4.  The leader must make decisions ― The person who cannot take a stance does not deserve to lead others.
  5. The leader must be free from prejudices ― As the saying goes, “Prejudice is a luxury only little people can afford.”
  6. A leader must learn to praise others, to share the credit, and to give credit where it’s due ― If he or she tries to take credit for everything, he will not lead; he’ll only frustrate those under him.
  7. A leader must be able to concentrate under difficult conditions ― To keep the goal constantly in mind and keep his or her head when everyone else is losing theirs.
  8. A true leader will assume responsibility for his/her mistakes.
  9. A leader will not try to avoid responsibility for the mistakes of others.
  10. A good leader will grow and learn ― Stagnation is not leadership.

These 10 essential qualities form the bedrock for continual self-discovery, excellence and high performance as we adapt, pivot and reinvent ourselves.

It’s important to recognize that leadership doesn’t hinge on perfection; rather, it centers on embracing our humanity and enabling others to unleash their truest and best selves.

Let’s adopt and find ways to integrate these 10 qualities into our arsenals as we pave the way for greatness within ourselves and those we lead.

Written by : George Raveling

Referred to by many as “Coach,” George Raveling has transcended the intersections of sports, business, and culture. Following a standout college basketball career at Villanova University, he ascended to head coaching positions at Washington State University, the University of Iowa, and the University of Southern California.

After retiring from coaching, Raveling joined Nike at the request of Phil Knight, where he played an integral role in signing a reluctant Michael Jordan. His renowned achievements include induction into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame and the National Collegiate Basketball Hall of Fame.

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A newsletter from an 87-year-old Modern Elder, seamlessly blending profound and timeless life lessons from the intersection of sports, leadership, business, history, and culture.

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