What Does it Mean to “Be a Leader?”

By Linda Fisher Thornton

Leadership is not about being “in charge” or standing “at the front of the room” or “exercising personal power.” Authentic ethical leadership flips that paradigm.

The authentic ethical leader is:

Standing beside, encouraging, supporting, guiding
Standing in the back offering encouragement
Stepping aside when people are capable of doing the work without support
Stepping forward to remove obstacles and clear the path for success
Taking responsibility and sharing credit
Being available and ready to help

This is the work of leadership.

Do not be fooled by someone trying to use power for personal gain. Bottom line — If it’s loud, self-serving and egotistical, it’s not leadership.