ABCDE Of Leadership

In our continuous search for true and effective leadership, and what components, skills, traits, and actions are necessary, we often over - emphasize some aspects and under - emphasize others. While there are no simple shortcuts on the path of becoming a great and significant leader, if someone commits to the "ABCDE" of leadership, he puts himself in the best possible position to being effective and a true leader. These five steps are:

1. Arrange; 2. Believe; 3. Create; 4. Deliver; and 5. Elevate. This method puts one in the best possible position, mentally, emotionally and physically, to develop strong leadership traits and skills.

1. Arranging one's mindset and agenda in an organized, well planned, thoughtful and caring way, is an essential component in the quest to be a true leader. Unless a leader knows and understands what he wants to accomplish and where he needs to go, how can he possibly become a real leader? Great leaders understand that leadership is a step - by - step process, and needs an agenda and a plan.

2. Great leaders must both believe in what their organization stands for, as well as believing in themselves. This develops an attitude needed for success, because only with this type of true belief, is someone able to maintain the consistency and direction that is needed for effective and sustainable leadership.

3. How creative is your leader? True leaders can never afford to be set in their ways, or inflexible to different ideas or approaches. Creativity means looking at achieving relevant and essential goals that enhance an organization's relevance and make it more sustainable. A creative leader can often revitalize bored members and supporters, by using what might be perceived as a fresh approach, and therefore followers develop a more optimistic view of the effectiveness and significance of the group. Beware the individual in leadership who stops looking for fresh ideas or approaches, and will only do what others have done before!

4. All the rhetoric, ideas and intent in the world, have little meaning unless a leader delivers on his promises. Organizations have fallen into challenging times because followers stop believing those in leadership who talk the talk, but continuously fail to walk the walk. Effectiveness requires decisive, directed and timely action.

5. It is the responsibility of a leader to elevate the discussion to a higher quality. There is no room in true leadership for blame, pettiness, or the emphasis on the status quo.

Will you commit to the "ABCDE" for effective and meaningful leadership? While not the whole story, this concept is an essential basis.