10 Influencers Every Leader Needs.

In my search for ways to get better at being a leader, I’ve tried to look at other leaders that are making an impact.

As I’ve read biographies and listened to podcast and interviews, I have noticed that most of the leaders that are innovators in their field have certain traits in common.

One of those traits is the facts that they all have influencers they look up to.

Recently I heard one of those leaders challenge a room full of us to identify ten influencers in our lives that we can say enhance our leadership capabilities.

He not only defined what he felt where the essential traits, he asked us to put a name next to the trait.

And that is what I will ask you to do also. As you read the list of ten, identify and name who is that person in your life.

As I did this exercise it made me realize that as leaders that old adage of “It’s lonely at the top” is not really applicable.

1. A companion that stands with you. Every one needs a companion that stands by us. With me that’s my wife. We all need a hand or an arm that will lift us up. My wife is an encourager in my life. I can say that when my wife and I are hitting it on all cylinders, we are a force to be noticed. Who is that in your life?

2. A mentor who loves you. As leaders we have to have someone we admire and respect. Someone that has gone before us and has blazed a trail. Someone on whose shoulders we can stand on. Preferably someone who we have a relationship with and who loves me.

3. A Friend that is truthful. This is a hard one. For this to work, we must be able to receive feedback even when is negative. We must give permission to speak truth to us as unpleasant as that may be. Be bold enough to ask for feedback and not get defensive when receiving it.

4. A network that is healthy. Friends, peers that are healthy. Positive people that will speak encouragement to us. People that will inspire each other. Stay away from those that have hidden agendas and just want to network to see what they can get out of you.

5. A team that completes you. Don’t be a Lone Ranger. Look for people that are on the same page, that have caught the vision and are willing to move that vision forward. Make sure you complete each other, not compete against each other.

6. A faith that is enduring. A someone that is a compass in your life. Someone you can look to when facing struggles.

7. Input that improves you. Have to stay teachable. I read this quote not too long ago; “You learn nothing from life if you think you are right all the time.” Look for ways to improve and get better at your craft. Listen to podcasts (the right ones) be broad and listen to positive ones. Read.

8. A hero that inspires you. Who is that one person that you would like to have dinner with to pick their brain?

9. A spear that fires you. Who is that one person that when you get around them gets you dreaming?

10. An environment that inspires you. Have an environment that is full of encouragement.

That’s the list. I hope it helps. Would you take the challenge and attach a name to each category?

Till next time.

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