Generosity
Webster’s dictionary describes generosity as the readiness or liberality of giving, the freedom from smallness of mind or character, a generous act, amplitude, largeness or fullness.
Building influence with other is available to everyone, but requires tremendous extension of oneself.
The greatest example of generosity that the world has ever seen was Jesus Christ. He gave everywhere that he went and then one day he gave the ultimate sacrifice, His life. All we can offer him in return is our lives, completely and totally surrendered.
Kindness
Power, the ability to force someone to do your will, even if they would choose not to, because of your position or your might. It can be bought and sold, given and taken away. People can be put into positions of power.
Authority, the skill of getting people to willingly do your will because of your personal influence. It cannot be bought or sold, given or taken away. It is about who you are as a person, your character.
Enthusiasm
“Enthusiasm is like gravity, you know it’s there, you know it exist, but how do you define it?” Jamie Williams
Many things in life are contagious, a cold, a fever, a smile, and enthusiasm is one of these things. Alone in it’s self enthusiasm is an attractive attribute to possess. People cling to those they enjoy being with and enthusiastic people have this vibe about them. Everyone wants to be apart of a team that is enthusiastic and excited but one thing we must know as a leader you must possess the qualities that you desire your followers to have. Successful leaders are highly driven and motivated. Good leadership consists of motivating people to the highest level by offering them opportunities – not obligations.
Responsibility
Leaders must take the responsibility to correct an improper course of action taken by someone under their leadership. Truth is, some leaders are too afraid to discipline someone because they fear losing the favor of the people, but when some incorrect action calls for discipline and corrective measures, taking responsibility to work it out as soon as possible. Jim Rohn said, “We must all suffer from one of two pains: The pain of discipline, or the pain of regret. The difference is discipline weighs ounces, while regret weighs tons”.
There is a saying that goes like this, “Actions speak louder than words”. In other words, when you have the opportunity to do something significant, a leader must act with certainty. If a leader sees a real need, he/she should roll up their sleeves immediately and do whatever he/she can. That way your followers will also be motivated to join in as well.
A great leader always listens to the thoughts/criticisms of his/her people. Have a teachable spirit. Be willing to be influenced by your people.
A leader must always take the responsibility to keep everything in his/her organization truthful. Over the past few years, too many ministries have crumbled because they never were very honest. In other words, a leader should always tell the truth, because if a leader cannot be honest and truthful and even trustworthy, then the motivation of his/her people will plummet like a rock to the bottom of the ocean. There is a fact many leaders miss here: No one wants to be led by a liar! No-one likes to be deceived. The lies of the leader always reflect on the integrity of every person in the team. The way out, is to take responsibility to face up to the problem immediately, ask forgiveness of the people, and set things right. That means you take responsibility for your actions. Carol Hymowitz stated, “It has to be encouraged by leaders who themselves are honest and willing to admit their failures”.
Treat people fairly. Give to them what is owed and promised to them. That means, never over-promise. Never promise someone what you cannot deliver. I like the phase that says: “If you want to lead the band, you have to face the music.” TAKE RESPONSIBILITY !!
