Being a confident leader is perceived based on who you are and not necessarily by what you do. If it is your goal to become a confident leader, you must first recognize this call to action. Sadly, who you are is determined by the habits which you choose to cultivate. Therefore, if you practice habits which help you to become a beacon of light and inspiration, then the people who spend time with you will see this. If you choose to develop counterproductive habits, then, people will rate your quality of leadership based on how they see you. They will judge and respond to your leadership based on your behavior, regardless what you say or do.
“A true leader has the confidence to stand alone, the courage to make tough decisions, and the compassion to listen to the needs of others. He does not set out to be a leader, but becomes one by the equality of his actions and the integrity of his intent.” –Douglas MacArthur
Are You A Confident Leader?
Many individuals may think that being able to control or manage others equates great leadership. Quite the contrary, as, leadership is leadership. When you seek to lead, you must first invest 50% of your time in leading yourself. You need to develop your own purpose, ethics, principles, motivation, and conduct. Then you can consider Investing at least 20%, leading those with authority over you and 15% into leading your peers. Remain cognizant of the fact that effective leadership isn’t about lengthy speeches or being popular. Your leadership is defined by the results you achieve, not by the attributes which you possess.
Are You A Confident Leader or A Boss
In the working environment, a boss usually creates fear; is known to assign blame; knows it all and usually ensures that work is seen as pure drudgery. Whether you are in an office, or a virtual leader – aim not to be the boss, aspire instead to be the leader. As the leader you’ll be expected:
- to inspire others with your confidence;
- ask the questions which provide the answers to move forward;
- be progressive and keep the tasks at hand interesting.
The group effort is of great interest to a confident leader, because he or she knows the help of others can help achieve the greatest good for all.
Remain A Confident Leader
In Challenging Situations
The fact remains that unsure, uncomfortable and defensive situations do not have to be difficult. Once you approach these situations with the correct attitude you will be sure to see the difference. To do so, you must be equipped with immense self-confidence. This would simply reflect how well you think of your own talents and abilities. Therefore the more you like yourself, the more confident you will feel. That confidence will, in turn, ensure that you work more efficiently. Thus you would see the value of your contribution to the development of the whole. Also, others will feel inspired to work with you as they will see – a confident leader at the helm.
Sync With Inner Values
Living your life in accordance with your innermost values will ensure that you attain the success which is associated with your high self-esteem. You need to be clear about what is important. That way you can be respected for the manner in which you honor your values. The law of reversibility says that there is a direct link between feelings and actions. Simply put, you will behave according to how you feel. Consequently, how you feel will cause you to behave in a manner of your choosing. For example, if you view your time as valuable, this will, in turn, allow you to feel like a more valuable person.
Lead Courageously
As a leader, you also maintain your confidence by practicing courageous leadership. Throughout life, there are risks we all take. Whenever you take a particular course of action, the outcomes may be uncertain. Every day, you take a small risk when you walk to work or go to make purchases at the supermarket. You take a larger risk when you start a business or invest a large sum of money. Any venture into the unknown is a risk. However, to lead, you must be confident about the risks which you choose to take in pursuit of the right goals
“Leadership is not magnetic personality, that can just as well be a glib tongue. It is not ‘making friends and influencing people,’ that is flattery. Leadership is lifting a person’s vision to higher sights, the raising of a person’s performance to a higher standard, the building of a personality beyond its normal limitations.” –Peter F. Drucker
Moving Forward With Confidence
Remember, leadership is not management nor is leadership, control. Leadership ensures that leaders are seen for their ability to lead others into action. They achieve this through their own displays of confidence while dealing with the duties they are responsible for.
Therefore, there is a need to cultivate good habits which will, in turn, demonstrate to others your exemplary leadership skills. Each step you take toward the accomplishment of your goals is a risk; its value determined by how much you stand to gain. Risk taking is a necessity, but weigh your options! Ensure that you take risks which will contribute positively to the achievement of your goals.
Furthermore, as a confident leader, you need to value the initiative of your group members. Their inefficiency may not necessarily be a reflection of their true potential. It may serve instead, as an indication that their talents are not properly utilized. Encourage their efforts in areas where their talents can thrive. Their feelings of accomplishment will promote contentment and confidence, ensuring that work is no longer seen as drudgery. Want to know how to utilize the talents of your group efficiently?
This is why you need to be a part of the 90/10 Life! The 90/10 Life Programs will provide you with step by step instructions which will help you to lead with confidence. Learn how you can excel also as a virtual leader.