9 Characteristics of Successful Leaders

Initiative: an introductory step and active effort to cause results-producing action. Strong leaders are always ready to take the first step toward their goals. Know that sometimes you have to walk before you run, but as long as you are taking the first step toward your ultimate goal you are headed in the right direction. Break down your goals into tasks and give those tasks specific deadlines and GET IT DONE!

Assertiveness: the ability to take charge and present opinions forcefully and persuasively. Surely you recall an occasion where there were many people trying to take control of just one situation and as a result hardly anything gets accomplished because there isn't that one person who is assertive enough to stop the confusion and make it happen. This is a great example of how a leader who demonstrates assertiveness and the gusto to "make it happen" in a timely manner is absolutely critical.

Decisiveness: the conceptual and analytical thought processes used in solving problems and making decisions; the willingness to commit oneself when asked to make a definite choice. The decisiveness and assertiveness of a great leader go hand and hand. Being decisive and assertive does not mean being demeaning or taking away from the validity of anyone else's thoughts or ideas. It means taking the ideas and opinions of a few or many and deciding which plan of action will be most effective in completing the current goal.

Being a Team Player: the ability to function in a team environment; the demonstrated attitude of ensuring the success of everyone involved. Hearing, understanding, and respecting the views of many can be a truly challenging feat. A tenacious leader makes certain to delegate responsibilities and show every member of their team the utmost respect. In work and in play, a leader knows the importance of letting their team members know that they are appreciated and remembering the platinum rule (Treat others the way they want to be treated). Always listen to understand and make sure you know what your team members are bringing to the table.

Conflict/Resolution: the ability to resolve differences of opinion with peers, superiors, and subordinates while accomplishing the task at hand and maintaining relationships. A strong headman utilizes their knowledge of their peers, communication skills, and the power of praise to make every person feel like their feelings and "truths" are acknowledged and considered. It takes compassion and understanding to show the pros and cons of both sides of an argument and serve as a mediator. A strong leader can work through a difficult situation using strong communication skills and being interested not just interesting.

Intelligence: Your conceptual ability, breadth of knowledge, verbal expression, depth of response. Superhero training is a great example of how there are many different types of "intelligences" and that no one is any better than another. Intelligence (whatever type it may be) is an essential piece of leading a group.The most significant part of being an intelligent leader is acknowledging the fact that often times it requires more than one person and intelligence type to really come up with masterful ideas.Intelligence and power partners are an imperative key to unleashing your full potential as a force to be reckoned with.

Creativeness: the ability to be a visionary and dreamer. "If you continue to do what you've been doing, what makes you think you won't continue to get what you've been getting??" It's the perfect question for the visionary and dreamer.If you want to make a change or see different things, you must first see things differently. A creative leader is not afraid to take chances or go for something that seems "outlandish." Creative leaders are the driving force of technology and our ongoing evolution.

Oral Communication Skills: effectiveness of expression; the ability to deliver a verbal message in a fluid, articulate, succinct, and persuasive manner. Although 93% of communication is non-verbal, the 7% that is verbal is CRITICAL. Notice the way a strong leader speaks: with intention and power. Your voice and the way you deliver a message can be one of the most powerful tools that you have. Speak with purpose and portray that what you have to say is important!

Confidence: the display of strong self worth through actions, poise, charisma and presence. Everyone knows when a strong leader walks into the room and knows they are a 10! A confident leader knows that they have the power to change the game just because of who they are. Recognize that being confident also means being humble and gracious; knowing that you too are a work in progress. Continue to show confidence by working hard to accomplish your goals and helping and empowering others get more of what they want and less of what they don't want.

9 Characteristics of Successful Leaders written by Austen Brown a graduate of and a speaker at Eagle U, as well as a full-time student at the Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Fort Worth , Texas. Her passion is helping young people pursue their passions and mentoring young ladies toward spiritual maturity.

Article provided by Eagle U.