To Inspire:

I continue to reflect on leadership – in our families, workplaces and communities. To be an effective leader, we must be able to draw people to us. Leadership expert and author John Maxwell refers to this trait as charisma. Not that we need some kind of sparkling magnetic personality. But simply that we present ourselves to others in ways that make them want to be with us, listen to us and follow us.

In his devotional, Leadership Promises for Every Day, Maxwell cites four possible roadblocks to developing charisma:

Pride – Nobody wants to follow a leader who thinks he is better than everyone else.

Insecurity – If you are uncomfortable with who you are, others will be too.

Moodiness – If people never know what to expect from you, they stop expecting anything.

Perfectionism – People respect the desire for excellence but dread unrealistic expectations.

Cynicism – People don’t want to be rained on by someone who sees a cloud around every silver lining.

We all lead in some way, whether or not we have a title. Are you able to draw people to you? Are you presenting yourself to others in ways that make them want to be with you, listen to you and follow you? If not, you might consider whether any of the above apply to you. If so, commit to changing your attitude and behavior in ways that enable you to be the leader you want to be – the leader others need you to be!

Have a great weekend!

Written by Matt Palmer, Partner & Co-Founder