10 Easy Ways to Know You Are Not a Leader
Choosing the qualities that make a good leader is a monumental task and can be very confusing at times. It all boils down to personal choice; it is like having to choose between Sprite and 7-Up on a hot day when what you actually want is a Coke. Tony Morgan from www.TonyMorganLive.com gives us 10 simple clues not on spotting good leaders, but spotting bad leaders. I hope you find this as interesting and amusing as I did.
10 Easy Ways to Know You’re Not a Leader
- You’re waiting on a bigger staff and more money to accomplish your vision.
- You think you need to be in charge to have influence.
- You’re content.
- You tend to foster division instead of generating a helpful dialogue.
- You think you need to say something to be heard.
- You find it easier to blame others for your circumstances than to take responsibility for solutions.
- It’s been some time since you said, “I messed up.”
- You’re driven by the task instead of the relationships and the vision.
- Your dreams are so small, people think they can be achieved.
- No one is following you.
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Nice list – sometimes it really seems like the best strategy to work backwards – like in this case pin point what qualities or attributes a leader doesn’t have as opposed to what they do have. It’s also a lot more illustrative and concise if you ask me.
Number 9 brings to mind a quote from a famous old Apple commercial, “And it’s the people who are crazy enough to think they can change the world who actually do.”
Josh Simmons said this on February 5, 2007 at 12:32 pm
Those are definitely 10 surefire ways to recognize room for improvement. Leadership can be very broad but eliminating the do-not’s comically aids in behaviors to avoid
Robin Gerlach said this on February 13, 2007 at 12:08 am
#9 is really funny but very true. i never heard about this one but once I thought about it, it made sense.
Leslie Truong said this on February 27, 2007 at 10:50 am
Number 3 brings about the video that Mr. Ratka had us watch. At the end, Mr. Jobs says “Stay hungry, stay foolish”. It is ok to make mistakes, only turn those mistakes into lessons, and never lose the drive to become better.
Mr. Alban Ng said this on February 27, 2007 at 10:52 am
Nice list, I really feel strongly with number two. Leaders listen too. I also like the clues which say leaders dream and think of the impossible.
No one is following you. HA.
Mr. Bollinger said this on February 27, 2007 at 10:53 am
This is a very useful list. I think if everyone applies this to their everyday life or activities they engage in, it will be immensly benefitial.
Ms. Stephanie Sandoval said this on February 27, 2007 at 10:53 am
Great list. We have all heard at one time or another about what are some great leadership skills. It is refreshing to look at the flip side and see what it takes to be a lousy leader at best.
We can learn just as much if not more, from this sort of list.
Mr Petar Kralev said this on February 27, 2007 at 10:56 am
This is a good list because not only can it be applied to others when screening, but to analyze ones self.
Ms. Milli Garcia said this on February 27, 2007 at 10:57 am
Very accurate list. I do however feel that you can be content at times and be a good leader with good preperation and efficient action to carry out plans.
Mr. Pat Ratka said this on February 27, 2007 at 11:08 am
I Think we need to be aware of our weakness so that we can work it out, number 7 is for me.
Best Regards,
Mr Carlos Aquino said this on February 27, 2007 at 11:16 am
Interesting list. I agree with number 1…leaders should be able to succeed with what they have and not dwell on what they need.
Christine Swift said this on February 27, 2007 at 11:18 am
This list is great. Number 1 struck me as especially imortant, since assuming the leadership role should not always require monetary influence.
Mr. Frank Dallezotte said this on February 27, 2007 at 11:24 am
I dont really agree with #9. I dont believe that people think only small dreams can be achieved. I know thats not the way I see it.
Ms. Danielle Barnett said this on February 27, 2007 at 11:30 am
I like this list, it makes me want to never have these characteristics. I especially like number 8, because the journey is the important part.
Steffany Hamilton said this on February 27, 2007 at 11:36 am
I thought it was interesting that Tony Morgan showed how easy it is to point out a bad leader. Usually, I would have thought it is the other way around; how good leaders stand out more.
This list is a good reminder about being a leader and keeping ourselves in check.
Lora Honda said this on February 27, 2007 at 11:42 am
I like the list and I can relate to #5 because I always think I have to say something to be heard, but I don’t realize my actions say something too.
Ms. Rena Farah said this on February 27, 2007 at 11:42 am
I agree. To be a good leader, you must know how to be a good follower.
Mr. Robert Miniard said this on February 27, 2007 at 12:08 pm
#9 is my favoirte, you should always dream big!
Ms. Ashley Arata said this on February 27, 2007 at 1:01 pm
This is a thought provoking list, I’m sure everyone and every leader has seen themselves some where on the list at some time If not your simply lying to yourself. Being on the list is not what mattters, it’s the fact that you recognize your difficulties and improve on them.
Mr. Kevin M. Donnelly said this on February 27, 2007 at 1:35 pm
I believe it is important a good leader is not always depending on more money in order to succeed. He has to find ways of making the money come to him- that is success.
Ms. Sabrina Waller said this on February 27, 2007 at 1:52 pm
I would say #1 is the most important. If you were a leader, you would take charge now! Procrastination is difficult to make up for.
Rachel Quan said this on February 27, 2007 at 2:54 pm
I definitely agree with this list. It covers many areas of being a leader. I believe that #7 is correct because as people, we are always growing and learning, and sometimes that means by making a mistake. “The only real mistake is the one from which we learn nothing.”- John Powell
Ms. Allison Quincer said this on February 27, 2007 at 3:08 pm
These are essential things to consider in effective leadership. The goal is the strength of a group and how effective it can be. While strong leadership is important, I believe a leader should be diplomatic and equal to his peers at the same time.
Domenic Di Tomaso said this on February 27, 2007 at 3:26 pm
I also agree with everyone else. This is a very useful list and they are all very true.
Vi Nguyen said this on February 27, 2007 at 4:00 pm
Together the Alpha Tau pledge class can come together and develop our leadership skills. It is important as a leader to not push down other people as you climb up, but more important to bring them up with you.
Ali Hughes said this on February 27, 2007 at 5:19 pm
It is important to know the attributes of someone who is not a leader to avoid allowing these people to enter into a position of power and guide devoted followers array… such as the situation our country faces today.
Mr. Samuel Sandoval said this on February 27, 2007 at 11:03 pm
Number 10 is the best way to know if your a leader…. if no one follows you then its time to look at yourself and say what can I do to improve the situation.
Tanya Melloul said this on April 6, 2007 at 7:18 am
I love this article! I re-read it every so often to remind myself of ways to be a better leader. More often than not, we find ourselves making excuses such as those listed above and simply settle for less or give up. This article really shows us that we should not be afraid to make mistakes nor to step out of our comfort zones. It really motivates me to not make the mistakes or give the excuses that are listed.
Mr. Vince Golangco said this on May 14, 2007 at 9:23 am
My personal favorites are:
- You think you need to be in charge to have influence.
- You’re content.
- You think you need to say something to be heard.
- It’s been some time since you said, “I messed up.”
We need to identify areas in need of improvement and make positive change. Lets motivate ourselves to become better leaders than we were yesterday.
Mr. Thomas Chu said this on August 13, 2007 at 10:43 am
Personally, the points that stand out to me are:
You’re Content- you should enjoy the fruits of your effort yet don’t settle be sure to grow and strive for more.
You Think You Need to Say Something to be Heard- Your actions should always speak louder than your words
You’ve been driven by the Task instead of the relationship and the vision- if you loose your focus you loose yourself. Stay rooted. Stay passionate.
These are secure ways of failing to be a leader. Let’s stray away from these. Leadership is not a job or a task. Leadership is in our being and it is a choice.
Ms. Tyana Perez said this on August 13, 2007 at 2:09 pm
Being a leader means a lot of things, and those are surely not what a leader is all about. The last one stood out to me about someone who is not a leader does not have any followers. Being a leader is about setting an example for yourself that others want to follow.
Those who truely are being followed do not display those 10 signs.
We all do make mistakes, but as long as we learn from those mistakes we are still leaders.
Ms. Jennie Flores said this on August 17, 2007 at 6:56 pm
This is definitely a good list to check and re-check regarding your own faults as a leader in order to minimize these negative traits. The fact is, however, all leaders have possessed these traits at one time or another and the great leaders have identified this and made an effort to improve in their deficiencies. My point is that even if you have identified these traits within yourself, as I have, it doesn’t mean that you are not a leader. It means that you must make an effort to minimize the negatives once you have identified them. Don’t be discouraged! Continue to build upon these and if you make a serious effort, you will be a great leader as well.
Mr. Nathaniel Donnelly said this on August 18, 2007 at 8:22 am
In the words of Thoreau, “How can we remember our ignorance, which our growth requires, when we are using our knowledge all the time?”
Mr. Nathaniel Donnelly said this on August 18, 2007 at 8:27 am
As young adults we are slowly thrown into the “real world” that waits outside our comfortable academic surroundings. Our once huge dreams battle against the hurdles of reality. The following are my three favorite signs that the article lists as indicators to know you are not a leader. They reveal the limits and barriers we place on ourselves.
• You think you need to be in charge to have influence.
• You’re content.
• Your dreams are so small, people think they can be achieved.
As a leader, you challenge the status quo and seek out new opportunities to make the organization and its members stretch to higher limits. What I love about Alpha Kappa Psi is that it continuously celebrates and promotes innovation by providing a platform for creativity. Through this, it consistently builds strong leaders that drive their dreams into reality.
Ms. Marissa Nieto said this on August 21, 2007 at 12:48 pm
I think the most striking clues to spot a bad leader our ones you can see not only in professional relationships but also in your personal relationships. Specifically being unable to realize when mistakes have been made. I think being able to acknowledge and learn from your own mistakes are a big part in learning how to lead and being a good colleague and friend. Being humble is just as important as having confidence in your own abilities.
The other clue which i think reflects both personal and professional relationships is when someone is driven by a need or a task rather than by the relationships and vision. Being respected by your peers and respecting those around you can go along way with regards to accomplishing goals. Keeping a vision, a “bigger picture” idea is also important because a good leader should be able to think big and see beyond the here and now, for the benefit of all those involved.
A leader should be able to keep all these “red flags” in mind, but a leader should also keep in mind those things that make a leader, a good leader: respect, patience, creativity, openness and a good balance between humility and confidence.
Tatiana Hulko said this on August 24, 2007 at 1:10 pm
I find a few reasons on the list to be accurate, but when it all comes down, leaders are simply people that choose to with a few exceptions. Anybody could become a good student, as long as the choose to pay attention, take notes, study, etc. Anyone could simply be a good leader by taking the time, initiative, and showing care/concern for whatever that needs to be achieved. Like I said earlier, there are always people that are physically and mentally unable to do certain things, like being a leader, but I think the main reason realistically and legitimately wanting to become one.
Mr. Pedram Farjad said this on September 28, 2007 at 12:12 pm
I believe #7 is the characteristic that most leaders have the hardest time with. Being able to admit your faults and shortcomings helps build trust and foster more open communication among those you work with.
Ms. Sara Nixon said this on September 28, 2007 at 12:12 pm
It is quite true how being “higher” than others causes judgement to be affected in the workplace. People strive so hard to achieve success for themselves that they lose the concept of teamwork and being a true leader. Building relationships with fellow co-workers and creating a nurturing environment where people are challenged to succeed and learn ultimately creates a better business. True leaders are few in this modern business world of self-success and ego.
Mr. Chris Larwood said this on September 28, 2007 at 12:16 pm
No matter how good you think you are and how much training you think you have done, one can still find something on this list that slaps you in the face. I found it to be a great reminder.
Mr. Dustin Adams said this on September 28, 2007 at 12:16 pm
# 9 is a very important characteristic for followers because many people are more content to succeed at something they know they will than to try something more challenging and have a possibility of failing. By being aware of how difficult our tasks are, we can then decide whether they are appropriate for us.
Mr. Ido Moscovici said this on September 28, 2007 at 12:20 pm
All ten items on the list are very well put together.
Number six stood out to me because Many people follow that and it doesn’t help anyone. Everyone makes mistakes and if you are able to say when you messed up you can learn from it. It is very helpful to do something wrong and learn from it so you don’t repeat the mistake. In class if I say the wrong answer out loud I always remember the right answer from then on because I don’t want to be wrong again.
A leader always takes responsibility for their actions and prevents that mistake from happening again.
Mr. Kevin Meyer said this on September 28, 2007 at 12:25 pm
Of all these items on the list, I believe the one that strikes me most is:
5. You believe you need to say something to be heard.
A true leader is a person who is influential because they have proven their worth and demanded their respect through actions. People always gravitate towards a leader who can get the job done accurately and efficiently without spouting falsehoods and empty promises.
Julie Klawiter said this on September 28, 2007 at 12:40 pm
I agree with the entire list. I especially like number 3 because becoming content with what you have will take away from your ambition, and ambition is something that is always present in great leaders.
Juan Virgil said this on September 28, 2007 at 12:40 pm
My personal favorite is
2. You think you need to be in charge to have influence.
I believe a person can be of influence at every moment in the way they choose to lead their lives. With that, if someone models his or herself according to the way you live your life, then you can be called a leader.
You are a leader when you choose to be, not necessarily when you are chosen to be a leader.
Ms. Myra Flor Pascua said this on September 28, 2007 at 12:42 pm
The one that stuck out the most was: It’s been some time since you said, “I messed up.” Most people do not want to admit they made a mistake, but would rather sweep it under the rug. A leader must be willing to admit to their faults and work to fix the problem.
Mr. Michael Acuna said this on September 28, 2007 at 12:42 pm
I enjoyed reading this list. I completely agree with No. 2 and No. 5. There are many leaders who don’t understand how true these 2 are. Leader need to be followers too.
Ms. Madelyn Mays said this on September 28, 2007 at 1:07 pm
I believe that this list is a good reminder on the things that we need to be aware of, and a chance for us to learn on how we can improve ourselves.
Number 10 is the obvious one for me. How could you be a good leader, when no one is following you.
Mr. Michael Nguyen said this on September 28, 2007 at 1:09 pm
In order for us to know how good of a leader we are, we must first know what faults we have. This list gives us a good resource of what we should look at in our selves, find out what is lacking and than put in the extra effort to resolve those issues that are hendering are leadership ability. The more we except our faults as leaders, the more we will push to become better at being one.
Mr. Brandon Jacobson said this on September 28, 2007 at 1:10 pm
# 7 are the hardest for anyone, not only leaders, to deal with. Nobody wants to blame themselves for mistakes they have made. But acknowledging that you have messed up taking the blame is what makes a leader and then doing something to fix it. Take ownership for defaults is what everyone person, leader or not, needs to work on.
Olivia Lea said this on September 28, 2007 at 1:19 pm
I found the list to be quite insightful. Over the years I’ve noticed a lot of those statements have gone overlooked by many people, and not only those in leadership positions (especially #2 and #5).
Mr. Dustin Roberts said this on September 28, 2007 at 1:37 pm
NICE list!!! I’ve always been around amazing people who in part showed me many characteristics in being a great leader and there has been a few not so great leaders in my life. Everyone has potential to become GREAT leaders and I feel that some of the requirements consist of being able to keep an open mind and always strive forward. #2 and 5: having “true” authority and the need to have your words heard… these two descriptions in my mind are completely unnecessary. The duties of a true leader in my mind is someone who can successfully delegate and bring a group together for a common purpose.
Mr. Carl Ngo said this on September 28, 2007 at 2:18 pm
I find this list fascinating with the focus on what a bad leader is compared to a good. First off it is said leaders lead my example not by voice. I think human nature allows us to believe we must be heard which is where leadership goes bad.
Mr. Aaron Zazzera said this on September 28, 2007 at 2:36 pm
Interesting. All of them are great, but the one that strikes back to childhood would be
3. You’re content.
I was a 4-H member for ten years and the motto was: “To Make The Best Better.” With that said, there is always something more you can strive for.
Ms. Jenifer Patterson said this on September 28, 2007 at 2:49 pm
I find #1 very insightful because it illustrates resourcefulness as an indicator of quality leadership.
Mr. Adam Castleton said this on September 28, 2007 at 3:37 pm
This is a very interesting list, and includes things that we see in people everyday.
Number 8 is most interesting to me at this moment in time, with less than two weeks with my pledge brothers under the belt. We all strive to finish tasks, maneuver around obstacles, and to see the end of this pledge process. However, I can tell how much we value the relationships we are building, and we know that we can come together in unity. With that said, I believe that every person in the Alpha Upsilon pledge class has the full potential to become a great leader, and I am honored to be among this group of individuals.
Ms. Allison Pestano said this on September 28, 2007 at 8:29 pm
Amazing list. They all leave you with something to think about. My favorite is #9. Sometimes people are afraid of having big dreams because they feel they might fail. I think if anything a big dream means vision, and sometimes thats just what you need to start becoming a leader.
Great list to keep you motivated.
Ms. Edith Leza said this on September 28, 2007 at 11:00 pm
I think all these facts are true. A leader isn’t always perfect and mess up as we all do…we are all human. Nobody’s perfect. A leader just tends to take on more responsibility but we are all capable of becoming a leader. Not everyone can be a leader, so some leaders at time have to follow.
Ms. Siboney Cales said this on September 29, 2007 at 5:31 pm
I suppose while reading this list you most likely reflect on whether you are like one or some of these. I know I did; and I found myself almost defending myself for those few that hit home. But the important thing here, to me, is that you let your guard down, know your weaknesses, and strive to conquer them.
Mr. Omar Corona said this on September 29, 2007 at 9:36 pm
Very interesting, list #10 is absolutely true, because when you are a leader, you will influence people and and motivate them, therefore making a big impact on them. People will follow you, because they feel comfortable and feel as if they can enhance as an individual when being around a leader. f no one is following you, obviously your doing something wrong.
Nam Vu said this on September 30, 2007 at 1:55 pm
no. 7. I dread the day i become like that. Not able to realise that i make mistakes. It is key to anyone’s personal growth that they realise the errors of there way and be able to adjust and learn from them. Reminds me of what my Grade 7 english teacher said to me “Never be afraid to ask questions”. Its a moto a follow to this day.
Mr. Baseer Rizvi said this on October 1, 2007 at 4:16 pm
This is well written. That the one that says “its been awhile since you have admitted youve messed up,” is the best one. We all make mistakes, but it takes a true leader with good character to be able to admit that they were wrong. We are all wrong at some point in time, but it is when we can admit that we are wrong that we will grow.
Ms. Madalyn Miller said this on October 2, 2007 at 10:55 am
It’s funny how this list is comprised. The only one that I would obviously think is a characteristic of a bad leader is #10. The rest of the list are things that you would eventually think of, but you would probably say the version of each one as a GOOD leader. In other words, it is more typical of people to brainstorm what they think is in a good leader, rather than just filtering out the bad ones by making a list like this.
I’d have to agree with each one though. Nicely put.
Mr. Kevin Grayson said this on October 2, 2007 at 2:25 pm
It is hilarious that we can actually see the type of people everyday, but then it shocks me at the same time because to be honest, I am involved in more than half! “I messed up” is my favorite saying after every exam. This list, common in life, is very helpful that makes me to think of meself again and of what problem I have to fix in order to grow up.
Mr. Justin Lee said this on October 4, 2007 at 12:00 pm
Reading this after just completing presentation #4 on world leaders creates additional discussion to what makes a good leader (however, in this case, what makes a bad one). I agree with and understand the 10 “clues” given. I am learning the importance of #2. Hearing what Mr. Golanco said last night clarified it’s definition. We are told that we don’t need a title in order to lead, and I am constantly reminding myself that. I also like #7. Yes, we all know that we’ve made mistakes, we are only human, but the more important thing is to own up to your mistakes. Yes, you’ve messed up, but take responsibility for it and just see it as something to learn from. A few words that really stuck by me were the ones from Ms. Hamilton: an effective leader doesn’t lead from the front, trying to pull everyone up. Instead they lead from the back, helping push everyone up.
I am aware of the qualities of a bad leader and will strive to continually better myself and grow.
Ms. Alyssa Uy said this on March 21, 2008 at 1:25 pm
Number six caught my attention because I feel that I always want to blame something or someone else for something that should be my responsibility. It’s hard to take the blame for something, but in reality, it’s the right thing to do. If it’s my fault, I need to step up and take responsibility.
Ms. Maggy Tjin said this on March 21, 2008 at 1:40 pm
I really enjoyed this list because I found that almost all of them were so true. My favorite was number one. There is always ALWAYS an excuse not to start accomplishing your goals – it’s up to a real leader to be resourceful and self-motivated.
Ms. Kristen Nevarez said this on March 21, 2008 at 2:01 pm
in addition to the list, look at this. Sometimes a person has the ability to lead other people, but with bad luck, he cant be. who wants this?
chuong said this on March 21, 2008 at 2:29 pm
I like the one that says you dont need to say something to be heard. Leaders aren’t always in the spotlight or do all the talking. A good leader knows how to utlilize the strengths of the group, and the old saying is true, ” actions are louder than words.”
Alexandria Nguyen said this on March 21, 2008 at 2:31 pm
#8 Really caught my attention. So many people are so focused on the end and the outcome instead of getting the whole experience of the journey and they tend to forget to enjoy the whole thing overall.
Ms. Tiffany Plengsangtip said this on March 21, 2008 at 3:25 pm
wow, this list sure did catch me by surprise. I am so use to seeing ways of being a leader. This list takes a viewpoint from a different perspective. I really like that. I also like #7 because it reinforces the fact that no one is perfect. Continue improvement and growth is key.
Mr. Michael Mao said this on March 21, 2008 at 4:27 pm
I really liked number 9: Your dreams are so small, people think they can be achieved.
Leaders are the trouble-makers; the people that can think so far out of the box that they can make things happen with their crazy and inventive ideas. If you keep your dreams small and attainable, then they are just that – attainable. You won’t get anywhere in life by just dreaming and working for the easy things. Instead, you have to bend the rules, fight hard, and dream big to be a true leader.
Ms. Nauzli Dadkhah said this on March 21, 2008 at 4:38 pm
This is right on! I feel leaders often get caught up in recognition and having to be the head of line, that they lose sight of what makes a great leader. #8 was my favorite. We should all be motivated by the experience and not the task. I feel if I can truly accomplish that, then I have found success!
Ms. Sasha Silver said this on March 21, 2008 at 5:32 pm
It was good how Tony Morgan showed us another side of what a bad leader is instead of a good leader, because one usually learns from someone who is successful than someone who is not successful. My personal favorites are:
5) You think you need to say something to be heard.
You’re driven by the task instead of the relationships and the vision.
7) Its been some time since you said; “I messed up.”
9) Your dreams are so small; people think they can be achieved.
Many people feel that to be a leader, they have to be the center of attention, when the truth is that your actions speak louder than your words. Sometimes when someone has the position of being a leader, it’s hard to say “I messed up” because we get into that mentality that a leader is suppose to never mess, but Tony Morgan lets us know that it’s ok to make mistakes, just learn from them and grow to be better. I really liked #8 because many people get so stressed over getting the task done instead of working together and experiencing the journey to getting the task done. Lastly, when people dream so small and achieve it, they are only achieving it, not getting anywhere in life. I feel that people have to go over and beyond their limits and dream big to become great leaders.
This is a great list to keep you motivated and help you identify any flaws you might have in becoming a great leader.
Ms. Payal Gadani said this on March 21, 2008 at 9:13 pm
Standing up for one’s actions is an indicator i use to spot a leader. Taking responsibility is often very hard for people but shows their ability to admit they were wrong. In turn they will learn and improve from their mistakes.
Mr. Scott Loy said this on March 21, 2008 at 10:41 pm
It is interesting to get a perspective from the other side. It’s like the elimination method in decision making.
The entire list makes sense. However, my personal favorites are
#1 – Good leaders take action
#2 – Influence people by setting examples
#5 – Actions speak louder than words
#6 – Take responsibility, LEARN and move on
#8 – As Ms. Hamilton rightly said: “It’s the journey that’s important.”
Mr. Saumil Patel said this on March 22, 2008 at 2:36 am
“You’re content.”
This resonates so deeply with myself. I truly believe that content is enemy of growth and success. If a leader stops pushing and bettering them self or their team, then growth is stopped and everyone fails.
Initiation Committee is there to make sure Alpha Phi does not fall into the trap of content. But I know slowly but surely we are getting to the point as a whole pledge class where we are no longer OK with being content.
Mr. Kolby Shibata-Goodman said this on March 22, 2008 at 2:19 pm
I really liked this list. It made me think- “do I display these qualities?” and “If so, I need to work on this” The list made me want evaluate myself a little closer, continuous self improvement is always a good practice to uphold.
Ms. Tasvee Uka said this on March 22, 2008 at 5:44 pm
I enjoyed the article and what it represents. Sometimes it is helpful to work backwards to get different points of view for the same outcome. Instead of always looking for qualities of good leaders, this allows us to spot qualities of a bad leader so we can improve on those weaknesses. I think #10 says it all, if no one is willing to follow your lead then it’s definitely time to evaluate your position.
Ms. Rebecca Wong said this on March 22, 2008 at 6:38 pm
Leadership, does it exist when all lead? Do any lead? Leaders are a bagel on a plate full of onion rolls.
Jonathan Gnibus said this on March 22, 2008 at 7:43 pm
I completely agree with this list. I have encountered many of these characteristics with others and often allow myself to feel “content” when I should not settle. I have tired in the last few years to not be content and settle in order to not regret any aspect of life. I believe that if everyone makes an effort to not do what this list states, then our society will be more driven and accomplish so much more.
Ms. Carolyn Chin said this on March 23, 2008 at 2:45 am
This list definitely tells you what not to do if you want to be a successful leader. I agree with #5 that you do not need to talk to be heard, often times actions state enough.
Mr. Justin Lee said this on March 23, 2008 at 2:50 am
I feel that the last point is definitely something that should be taken into account. If no one is willing to follow you, then you need to re-evaluate the way that you are presenting yourself to fellow peers and find a way to work together with them instead of trying to force them into reluctantly working with you.
Mr. Andrew Yang said this on March 23, 2008 at 3:12 am
These 10 clues are certainly things to be aware of. I have had leaders, employers, and even myself, embody many of these things. #3, “You’re Content”, stuck out to me because no matter what you’re doing there is always room for improvement or growth.
Mr. Adam Werner said this on March 23, 2008 at 5:07 pm
In response to #7, the last time I messed up was about 2 days ago!
My favorites are #3 and #9. I believe that leaders tend to not be content because they want more after seeing the results and discover that they aren’t exactly satisfied. They also have big goals and dreams that may not seem attainable to others. What matters is that YOU know that you can achieve your big dreams, even if others think it’s impossible.
Ms. Marie Tan said this on March 23, 2008 at 6:48 pm
I really liked reading this. This list complements the pledging experience because they both help me discover my difficulties/weaknesses as a leader. This list definitely motivates me to improve myself to be a good leader.
My personal favorites would be:
5) You think you need to say something to be heard.
- Many leaders feel that they need to talk, yell, and be the center of attention in order to lead, which I believe is not effective because it is how you act and present yourself to the people that you work with. The key is to gain the genuine respect from those around you, and once you have that, you’re all set.
- Your journey is the most important part, because this is the part where you learn and grow.
Mr. Jan-Hermes Bondoc said this on March 23, 2008 at 6:50 pm
#6 is by far my favorite one. A true leader should always lead by example, and taking responsability is a great example of what others should do as well. If you don’t take responsability then I asume that, that type of leader is ok with others making an excuse or blaming someone else for their actions. Earning respect is the foundation of a good leader, so if people can’t respect you, why would they want to lead you? I know that I defenitely cannot respect someone that doesn’t take responsability for their actions, and for sure, I would not follow their lead.
Ms. Yolanda Inchauregui said this on March 23, 2008 at 7:09 pm
This list is very motivational because its so simple. Each one of the items are easy to understand not only what makes a bad leader but more importantly why these qualities make a bad leader. My personal favorite is #3 because you always have to keep achieving and striving for a better life.
Mr. Darmin Trokic said this on March 23, 2008 at 11:34 pm
It reminds of me of how people only remember the bad…
Ms. Nghi Huynh said this on March 23, 2008 at 11:40 pm
My favorite is # 3.
If you’re content then you don’t strive to better yourself and you stop pushing yourself to the limit. A leader must always be evaluating their work and always be their toughest critique and always improve themselves.
Ms. Italia Acevedo said this on March 24, 2008 at 12:37 am
I feel that with past experiences we have all encountered this. The one question I have from this is how can you fix it. There is always room for improvement, just stay focused.
Ms. Danielle Kanegai said this on March 24, 2008 at 6:12 am
# 2 Stuck out the most for me. There isn’t only one leader in a group; all have the potential to lead and make an influence on the decisions made by a group.
Mr. Andrew Maggiora said this on March 25, 2008 at 8:29 am