Be a leader

Leadership is a complex capacity that extends far beyond formal titles or authority. Burns' foundational work on transformational leadership demonstrated that the most effective leaders inspire others by articulating a compelling vision, modeling integrity, and fostering individual growth in those they lead. Kouzes and Posner's research identified five practices of exemplary leadership — modeling the way, inspiring a shared vision, challenging the process, enabling others to act, and encouraging the heart — all of which are learnable behaviors rather than innate traits. Research consistently shows that individuals who develop leadership skills experience greater self-efficacy, career satisfaction, and sense of purpose. Leadership is ultimately about influence in service of a shared goal, and it can be exercised in any context — at home, in community organizations, or in the workplace.

• 1
  Others rarely look to you for guidance, direction, or decision-making even in areas where you have expertise
• 2
  You default to following rather than initiating, even when you have strong opinions about how things should be done
• 3
  You avoid taking responsibility for group outcomes because you fear being blamed if things go wrong
• 4
  You have never sought or been offered a leadership role in any area of your life

Consider these questions to understand where you stand: