The kind of leader you want to be

I work every day with a great leader.
She is practical, modest and never boastful.
She works hard and expects others to work hard, too.
She takes the blame when something goes wrong.
She gives the credit to others when things go right.
She acts with a quiet determination.
She channels her ambition into the mission — not herself.
She has an unwavering resolve to do whatever must be done.
Her goal is the greatest good for our company’s customers.
She sets high standards and holds herself accountable.
She will accept nothing less than excellence.
She is committed to planning and preparation.
She practices a Socratic approach to problem solving.
She asks lots of questions. She seeks solutions.
She wants the best thinking from everyone.
She has the courage to tell me when I’m wrong.
How do you measure up against that yardstick?
What are your strengths and skills as a leader?
Where could you improve your leadership?
Those are challenging, uncomfortable questions.
Great leaders ask these of themselves frequently.
Tomorrow we’ll discuss Level 5 leadership.
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