Leadership is a word commonly misunderstood by people. A manager might have some leadership skills, but not necessarily all managers are leaders. Many people believe that a leader is a person who controls and directs a group of people towards achieving a common goal. One can argue that such a definition feels correct, however the concept of leadership goes much further.
A real leader should empower people to act on their own, to align for a common goal. To fight because they believe it is right. To persuade people to do their tasks with passion, to be emphatic, humble, to feel compassion. A good leader encourages a collaborative atmosphere where all the team works towards the same goal.
Although many people believe that you are born as a leader, several authors argue that leadership skills can be acquired with experience [1]. These skills can not only help you to make positive changes in an organization, but also in a community, a group, and the society itself. Being a leader is not a matter of demanding others to complete a task on your behalf, but of doing it yourself with their support.
Every individual has their own valuable skills that can contribute to a common goal. It is your task as a leader to identify the skills of your team and use them properly. There’s some leadership within all of us, therefore you should not underestimate anyone, including yourself. You have the potential to make things happen, and others have the skills that can make it so.
“It is better to lead from behind and to put others in front, especially when you celebrate victory when nice things occur. You take the front line when there is danger. Then people will appreciate your leadership.” —Nelson Mandela
[1] Mumford, Michael D., et al. "Leadership skills for a changing world: Solving complex social problems." The Leadership Quarterly 11.1 (2000): 11-35.
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