subject: The Job Of Being Is Not An Easy One [print this page] Some people have what it takes to be a leader, others do not. Unlike an underling, who often just has one task to dedicate themselves to, a leader's scope must be comprehensive and wide, encompassing the work (and, in some cases, fates) of all the people he leads. Not everyone can deal with that kind of responsibility.
Leader's don't have handbooks to fall back on to tell them what to do should they waver. Thus, they must be strong of mind and body; weakness is never an option for a leader. However, compassion is essential, and a leader will quickly lose control of his flock without it. Like a stern mother, a leader has to remain firm while also empathizing and communicating with the people they lead. It's a tough job.
It is important for a leader to have a system of beliefs to lean on; that is why many political leaders are devout religious followers. Whether it is religion or contemporary philosophy, an unchanging set of standards gives a leader that support he so desperately needs when dealing with tough judgment calls. It is like a spine; without it, a man just flaps around aimlessly and can't walk or sit up straight.
No one wants to be led by anyone they don't believe in. People want leaders they can't rely on, leaders they trust, and if the person leading them constantly falters or seems unsure of themselves, they will inevitably be replaced. This is why a leader has to be confident at all times. When a situation hits him dead on, he has to be able to hit back with equal force, outlining a course of action with determination and conviction.
One of a leader's most important jobs is to make the decisions others can't. Whether it is a matter of moral ambiguity or one of great and possibly tragic outcome, leaders have to be able to choose well and live with that choice. This is perhaps the heaviest aspect of a leader's job. Because if a bad decision is made, all the blame falls on the leader.
A leader should be open to input from all sides, and should judge all input equally, regardless of source. Listening is a powerful skill, and can make a leader all the better. Leaders have to be able to make their own decisions, but that doesn't mean they can't listen to other people's opinions.
And, last but not least, a leader needs backbone. They have to be able to stand up for what they believe in, even when facing enormous opposition. Without this quality, one cannot be a leader.
A lot goes into the pot when cooking up a good leader. There is no perfect recipe, and it varies from person to person, but one thing can be certain. Leadership is about shouldering responsibility and making the best out of what you have. Do that, and you can't go wrong.
