Generally speaking, a leader is someone who motivates others to act toward achieving a common goal. A leader can rally people around a cause and move them to achieve a particular objective.

A good leader inspires people to do something bigger than themselves. To work together to accomplish key objectives and pool their strengths and resources to achieve great things. A good leader helps their team members become the absolute best version of themselves.

In inspiring England’s people to keep fighting in WWII, Winston Churchill is an excellent example of leadership. Thanks to his inspirational leadership, England’s people made great sacrifices to fight against the Nazi regime.

A leader is different than an organizer. An organizer gathers resources and deploys them most effectively. Yes, an organizer brings people together, but they do not inspire them to take significant, bold action.

Organizers are about efficiency, while leaders are about vision.

What traits and talents characterize a good leader?

Here are three of the seven high-level characteristics:

• Vision. An effective leader has a clear picture of where they want to go and how they will get there. They understand where they currently are and are crystal clear on what it will take for them to get to where they want to be. The leader must be able to communicate this vision clearly to his team.
  
  
• Motivation. An effective leader is highly skilled at motivating people. They know what makes others tick and can tap into those emotional triggers. They can motivate people to do things they maybe would not do otherwise through their words and actions.
• Service. The best leaders are those who serve their followers. They seek to help their team and make their team as effective as possible. They support their team members in whatever ways they can rather than constantly focusing on their plan and what they want to accomplish.

Tomorrow, I will share with you the other four charismatics of what makes a leader. Until then, stay safe, and keep the faith.