I’ve been blessed to be around great leaders.

Strong leaders.

Here are some of the characteristics I have observed in them.

1. Strong leaders ask great questions. They understand that the smartest person in the room generally isn’t them. They invite smart people into the room and ask really good questions.
2. Strong leaders are curious. They wander into new ideas with their team and invite possibility into the conversation. They never rest on, “That’s the way it’s always been done.”
3. Strong leaders put people in roles where they can win and make their best contribution to the mission at hand.
4. Strong leaders are open to ideas, perspectives, and feedback.
5. Strong leaders create an environment where people feel safe.
6. Strong leaders model excellence instead of barking out orders. They show others instead of telling them.
7. Strong leaders are compassionate. They understand that everyone has a story that is being written in real-time.
8. Strong leaders offer feedback instead of criticism. They never project their insecurities on a teammate.
9. Strong leaders surround themselves with extraordinary people and clear the way for them to shine.
10. Strong leaders hold themselves to the highest standards and walk their talk.

Let’s all pick at least one characteristic to focus on this week. And, you might want to consider sharing this list with the leaders on your team.

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