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Timeless Wisdom for Modern Leaders - Lead by Example

Guest post by: Per Winblad

Article Overview: Universally acknowledged as one of the world's wisest leaders, King Solomon, applied leadership principles that are as relevant and powerful today as they were in his own time. This article explores the importance of leading not only by words, but by deeds.

Timeless Wisdom for Modern Leaders - Lead by Example

Lead by Example Wise leaders lead by example and act in accordance with higher values. By doing this, they reap a number of benefits ranging from creating good relationships to establishing confidence in others that they will follow through and complete what they commit to. Quality, creativity and consistency are keys to this approach. King Solomon said: "The wise man will find a time and a way to do what he says. Yes, there is a time and a way for everything." What a leader spends time on and pays attention to counts. Leaders deliberately devote time to strengthening the group and stimulating its development. Supporting both the group and the individual becomes the norm, and defines priority and focus. Solomon also instructs: "A man is known by his actions." Wise leaders know the importance of being trustworthy. They align what they practice with what they preach. They do what they say they will do. When words and deeds are consistent, it creates credibility. And it is through being credible that a leader can gain a long-term commitment from the group. When you lead by example, you make it easy for others to follow you. Solomon tells us: "A good reputation is more valuable than costly perfume." Wise leaders know the best way to integrate values and ethics into the thinking of their coworkers is by modeling it themselves. They know that it’s not only what they do, but also how they do it that counts. We expect our leaders to set a good example and act in an exemplary way. So wise and effective leaders live their lives by acting in accordance with positive vision and values. As the saying goes: Our actions say more than words. That our words and deeds are aligned constitutes the basis for credibility of leadership. In Solomon’s words: "Without wise leadership, a nation is in trouble; but with good counselors there is safety." Wise leaders understand their role in creating the environment for their employees’ success. This involves making it possible for team members to interact in ways that produce measurable wins. We, as individuals, are unique and at the same time complementary. Supportive leadership can stimulate synergy among the team, and promote dynamic collaboration. Some leaders practice leadership by enthusiasm, placing themselves at the center of things when facing a task. Others lead by providing a clear picture of the situation and emphasizing that it presents opportunities. Still others have a more orderly process of leading their group further in their development, taking the task step by step. A wise leader provides a sense of continuity for the team and defines parameters that all must agree to comply with, including the leader him or herself. Solomon says: "Whatever you do, do well." We all possess a greater potential within us. The question is where we find the situations and the people that can bring out this inherent greatness. Always seek them out. How can I create my future and how can I lift those around me will be the key questions for top leaders. Wise leaders realize that there is only one way to go. It is to deepen their own commitment to creating a positive future. The responsibility that lies before us as leaders is to always operate for the good; for a better future, and a better world. This requires a fundamental conviction in the values that go beyond one’s own self, and which give life richer values and larger dimensions. To become a wiser leader: • Lead by example by acting in accordance with higher values. • What you, as the leader, spend time on and give attention to counts. • Gain trust by serving as a model and good example. • Align what you practice with what you preach. • It’s not only what you do, but also how you do what you do that sets the example people will follow. • Keep your commitments to the entire group – and especially to yourself. • Create an environment in which your employees can succeed. • Deal with your associates and employees with dignity and respect. • Have the highest demands of yourself. • Be the model of the behavior you want to see when it comes to relationships, attitudes, and work habits. • Always operate for the good; a better future, and a better world.

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Article Tags: higher values, lead by example, leadership, leadership principles, leadership wisdom, modern leaders, timeless wisdom, trust, wise leaders



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