1. Unwavering Courage 

Based upon knowledge of self and of one’s occupation. No follower wishes to be dominated by a leader who lacks self-confidence and courage. No intelligent follower will be dominated by such a leader for very long.

2. Self-control

People who cannot control themselves can never control others. Self-control sets a mighty example for one’s followers, which the more intelligent will emulate.

3. A Keen Sense of Justice

Without a sense of fairness and justice, no leader can command and retain the respect of his or her followers.

4. Definiteness of Decision

People who waver in decisions show that they are not sure of themselves. They cannot lead others successfully.

5. Definiteness of Plans

The successful leader must plan the work, and work the plan. A leader who moves by guesswork without practical, definite plans is comparable to a ship without a rudder. Sooner or later it will land on the rocks.

6. The Habit of Doing More Than Paid For

One of the penalties of leadership is the necessity of willingness, upon the part of the leaders, to do more than they require of their followers.

7. A Pleasing Personality

No slovenly, careless person can become a successful leader. Leadership calls for respect. Followers will not respect leaders who do not score highly on all factors of a pleasing personality.

8. Sympathy and Understanding

Successful leaders must be in sympathy with their followers. Moreover, they must understand them and their problems.

9. Mastery of Detail

Successful leadership calls for mastery of details of the leader’s position.

10. Willingness to Assume Full Responsibility

Successful leaders must be willing to assume responsibility for the mistakes and shortcomings of their followers. If they try to shift this responsibility, they will not remain leaders. If followers make mistakes and become incompetent, it is the leader who has failed.

11. Cooperation

Successful leaders must understand and apply the principle of cooperative effort and be able to induce followers to do the same. Leadership calls for power, and power calls for cooperation.

Excerpt on leadership from Napoleon Hill’s book – “Think and Grow Rich”

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