The Importance of Leadership

Leadership is an amazingly versatile word with many different variations bandied around depending on the circumstances. The word in itself is easily defined but what are the most common attributes you might find on every leadership qualities list?

Before we get to our list, let us discuss leadership in more detail, and what makes it so vital a quality to have.

For many of us, the first thought that springs to mind is at work. No matter where we work or who we work for, it is highly likely we report to someone. He or she is the leader of the office, the division, the dept, the troop or even the CEO of the whole organization. Now this is not to be confused with the manager as the subject or leadership versus management deserves and has its own volume of discussion!

A strong and charismatic leader of a workplace or business is vital. They ensure the culture of the team or staff is in good health. They stay ahead of the game and as a result are prepared for changes and flows. A strong leader empowers his team and shows the right balance of leading, guiding and telling. A strong leader is highly respected by the team and this in turn creates good morale and major productivity and performance loops.

Another common leadership scenario is in the armed forces. Decorated leaders in this field are highly trusted, deeply respected and have the unbridled support of their troops which is so crucial in situations of war. When you follow someone into battle, you follow the command of a leader and not a manager.

Leadership is not limited to merely work and country. Have a good think and you will find leaders everywhere and in every social situation. Look around your family and you will surely be able to name someone that everyone goes to for advice, cuts the Christmas turkey, sorts out family struggles and conflicts and ensures lives stay on the right track. Leadership qualities are used and needed all around us otherwise we would all be wandering aimlessly and not...