What is a Leader?
Leaders are unique individuals with a distinct mindset that sets them apart from followers. If you aspire to be an impactful personality, you must change how you see yourself and the world.
The Nature and Attitude of the Lion
A lion is recognized as the leader or king of the jungle, not because he is the tallest, largest, or smartest, but because of his unwavering attitude. The lion’s belief in his dominance makes him fearless, earning him respect from every other animal. Likewise, leadership doesn’t require you to have special advantages; it’s your belief and attitude that truly matter.
Our thoughts shape us into leaders or followers. Leadership is an attitude, a product of our beliefs. The lion sees himself as king—and so he is. Similarly, the elephant, though physically stronger, feels inferior in the presence of the lion due to his belief system. Your mindset ultimately shapes your life, and no amount of skill can replace the power of the right attitude.
Developing Leadership: 3 Key Factors
Your journey to becoming a leader depends on:
- Your perception of who you are
- Why you believe you exist
- Your sense of significance
Find your purpose, embrace a leadership mindset, and walk boldly through life. Leadership demands that you elevate your attitude, develop your gifts, and surround yourself with people who inspire you. Remember, true leaders empower others, nurturing leadership potential in those around them.
“When you discover leadership, it comes out in your attitude.”
Two Aspects of Leadership
1. The Leadership Spirit:
We are all born with the potential to lead, though our environment may stifle it. To lead, you must break free from societal expectations and courageously carve your own path, even if it means leaving certain friendships or norms behind.
2. The Spirit of Leadership:
This refers to a leader’s attitude and mindset. It is the self-belief that drives you, influences your perception of the world, and strengthens your conviction to lead.
7 Principles of True Leadership
- Inherent Capacity: Leadership is within everyone. Dying as a follower is a choice.
- Self-Discovery: True leadership cannot be taught; it must be found within.
- Self-Understanding: Great leadership is about knowing yourself.
- Service: Leadership is serving your unique gifts to the world.
- Self-Assessment: Regularly reflect on your strengths and growth areas.
- Manifesting Potential: Real leadership emerges when you act beyond what others can pay you for; it requires bearing risks.
- Self-Exposure: Live fully, serving the world with your gifts.
“You must decide if you are going to rob the world or bless it with the rich, valuable, potent, untapped resources locked away within you.”
— Dr. Myles Munroe
The Five Questions of Life
- Who am I? – Understand your destiny.
- Where am I from? – Know your heritage; we are citizens of heaven.
- Why am I here? – Discover your purpose.
- What can I do? – Identify your gifts, talents, and skills.
- Where am I going? – Uncover your destiny.
Photo credits: CC0 licensed photo by mdburnette from the WordPress Photo Directory.
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