Ranting and inspiring to be a leader

Leadership is one of those traits we all like to understand and be part of. Some say experience is the best teacher in learning good quality leadership skills, while others suggest that leadership can be taught in an educational environment.

I am sure many contributions can be made from each background; however, it is still valuable to define what is understood versus what is practiced.

Expert leaders employ strong communications, they listen to as many contributors as possible. Weak wannabe leaders force their personal views through bullying, falsifications, and an excess of arrogance.

In the past and present, an image of those sometimes-short termed successful persons have been identified as "Hitler-like," demanding, intimidating, sweet-talking when needed, and generally promising the golden egg that won't be laid without genuine hard work on the part of all.

Often, they go to extremes in describing themselves as trustworthy, typically they are well read and continually try to impress you with their knowledge by repeating others' suggestive comments.

I encourage you to be distrustful of such behavior. You will make your share of mistakes in life; none of us are protected from occasionally being incorrect, but build your personal leadership strengths, rely on your aptitude to include the voices of others.

Express your empathy and, when needed, sympathies.

Never try to suggest that if your method is not employed, the results will be a total failure.

People see through a persona that suggests yours is the only right way. Avoid losing your temper and creating embarrassment that generates others to capitulate without any more challenge, just to calm your temper tantrum.

Leadership demands that you be bold, reliable, honest, and above all a good communicator, listening as well as speaking. The word communication is derived from the word: communion, a sharing. Be yourself, be original.