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”
