The Coates Perspective for February 7, 2013 “Steering
Organizations To New Horizons.” Three Characteristics of a Strong Leader People
are drawn to strong leaders. History is filled with examples of strong leaders
who inspired others to follow them. It was Winston Churchill who inspired a
battered nation to never, ever give up. It was Abraham Lincoln who kept a
fractured nation from splitting apart. It was the Wright brothers who flew an
airplane without lessons and a pilot license leading others to fly into the
deep recesses of space. Leadership, at times is a very lonely place to be. This
is especially true for the strong leader. It was former Secretary of State Henry
Kissinger who said, “A leader does not
deserve the name unless he is willing occasionally to stand alone.” Sometimes,
the great leaders have to be alone: Alone with their thoughts, alone with their
plans to set the right course. And for men and women of faith, time alone with their God. Here
is the take-a-way for the leader who desires to be a strong leader. How is it done? What does a leader have to do
in order to grow and become a strong leader that others will follow? Here are a
few suggestions: 1. Lead with
passion: Convictions will take you further than convenience. 2. Lead with
humility: Leadership is a stewardship and must never be taken for granted or
abused. 3. Lead with the end
in mind: Great leaders make great decisions that impact great causes that
result in a great legacy. You’ve read my perspective. Now, I’d love to
hear yours. What are you thinking? What kind of impact can a strong leader make
in your organization? If you need help working through the
process consider using the resources at Coates and Associates, Inc. We would
consider it an honor to visit with you about developing a process forward. |