Does your mindset differentiate you as a great leader? Extraordinary leaders live by three basic truths. They understand that greatness is achieved by surrounding themselves with other extraordinary people. They also know that choices produce the right results, and little decisions add up to bigger, longer-lasting consequences. Thirdly, how they change will determine how well they succeed.
Do you believe that the people surrounding you will shape who you become? If you want to be a great leader, invest your time with great leaders. If you want to be a successful leader, look for other successful leaders. If you want to be a good decision maker, learn from other good decision makers. Associating with role models will lead to discussions, ideas, and an environment that inspires you. Start by identifying your own values and determining your vision of success, and then look for qualities in others that align with your values and vision.
What you choose matters. J.K. Rowling penned in Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets, “It is our choices, Harry, that show what we truly are, far more than our abilities.” Being an extraordinary leader takes passion; it takes courage, and it’s about inspiring others to take action.
When asking others to change, firmly evaluate whether a new approach, a new design, or a new way is necessary to reach your end zone. Do you relate to the adage that most people change only when the pain of remaining the same becomes greater than the pain of changing? Extraordinary leaders make change less painful. What is a change leader compared to a change manager? Leaders born and leaders taught by experiences know that managing things cannot replace emotional intelligence. If you are anxious about a change initiative, others will be too. If your mood is happy and your demeanor confident, others are more likely to mirror your behavior. If you’re confident, tolerant, evenhanded, and determined, you may have the qualities to lead through change.
Success in not an accident. It’s not final either. Your mindset will determine whether you consistently apply these three truths.