Real effective leadership occurs when the leader begins to understand that a substantial part of their role is to be there to support people and provide them with the means, tools, and environment that they need to get the job done. They don't need to be overseen, they need to be supported. They don't need to have to look over their shoulder to see if they are going to get lambasted for trying to do their job. I've said this before: the best leaders are the best servants.
Approaching any leadership position starts with the attitude. Is the attitude one of 'I am in charge and you will do it my way or else?" or is the attitude "I am here to serve you and to see how I can be helpful. What do you need from me so you can be successful?" The former leads to dysfunction, the latter leads to excellence.
The key to all of this is to ask why would you want to be in a position that requires leadership? If it is for the power and control and prestige then you really don't get it. Leadership is about service. It is serving people, the organization, and, yes, the greater good. If you aspire to a leadership position to help, to serve, and to make a difference, then you are well on your way.
Effective leaders are always asking "How can I make it easier for you to get your job done?" That is servant leadership to the core!
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