Character
1. Character is Action, as well as Words
Leaders set the course for behavior as well as the strategic direction. As a leader, others will watch your confidence, your integrity, your response and your enthusiasm. Demonstrating good character does not guarantee respect, but it is a sure thing that you will lose respect without it. Every time that you give advice for behavior, take a moment afterwards to reflect if your own actions are consistent with your advice.
2. Leaders Can Not Rise Above Limitations of Character
Lack of strong character leads to destructive behavior. According to Steven Berglas, a psychologist at Harvard Medical School and author of The Success Syndrome, leaders with weak character are destined for destruction through Arrogance, Aloneness, Adventure or Adultery. Have you witnessed someone who suffered from one of these? What was your impression of the character of that individual, and were you not surprised by result?
3. Character makes a Lasting Impression
Think of a business associate that you have not seen in a long time. When you find an old business card, see a familiar name in an email or press release, or hear the name in conversation; what is the first thing that comes to your mind? Do you immediately remember an event, a success, or a failure? Typically the first response is an emotional reaction, for example: Do you like that person? Do you trust that person? Do you wonder how that individual is, or are you grateful that the person is no longer in your life? Character makes a lingering emotional connection.
4. Talent is a Gift, Character is a Choice
The good news is that character is a choice, your choice. Character is defined by the numerous actions and expressions that you make every day. With the power of your will you can modify your character. It is not as difficult as stopping a bad habit. It is as easy as introducing good habits. Make it a point to do something positive every day. Consider the power of your actions and your words. Think about improving and reinforcing your character every day for 30 days and watch the change in the environment around you. It will have a lasting affect.
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Words of Wisdom
"Leadership is the capacity and will to rally men and women to a common
purpose and character which inspires confidence."
-Bernard Montgomery, British Field Marshal
"Never 'for the sake of peace and quiet' deny your own experience or
convictions."
- Dag Hammarskjold. Statesman and Nobel Peace Prize Winner
"Bend like a reed to accommodate the imagination of others, but stand like a
rock on principles."
- John Mehrmann, Executive Blueprints, Inc
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About the Author:
John Mehrmann is a freelance writer and President of
Executive Blueprints Inc., an organization devoted to improving
business practices and developing human capital.
www.ExecutiveBlueprints.com provides resource materials for
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