As an executive leadership coach, I have had the opportunity to work with a wide range of leaders from various industries. One thing I have noticed is that many leaders fall prey to misconceptions about leadership that can ultimately sabotage their success.
Here are five common misconceptions that can compromise the effectiveness of all and most leaders:
Leaders are born, not made: A popular misconception is that leaders are born, not made. While some people may have natural leadership abilities, leadership is also a skill that can be developed and honed over time. Successful leaders are those who are constantly seeking out opportunities to improve and grow as a leader.
Leaders must command and control: Many people believe that the most effective leaders are those who give orders and expect them to be followed without question. However, the best leaders understand that true leadership is about inspiring and motivating others to reach their full potential.
Leaders must be perfect: A common misconception is that leaders must be perfect. This is simply not true. Leaders are human and will make mistakes. The key is to learn from those mistakes and use them as opportunities for growth and improvement.
Leaders should be tough: Another common misconception is that the best leaders are those who are tough and unyielding. While it is certainly important for leaders to be assertive and decisive, it is also important for them to be empathetic and approachable.
Leaders need to do it alone: Many leaders believe that they must go it alone in order to be successful. However, this is not the case. Leadership is a team effort and it is important for leaders to surround themselves with a supportive team of advisors and mentors.
As an executive leadership coach, I have seen firsthand how these misconceptions can compromise the effectiveness of a leader. It’s important for leaders to be aware of these misconceptions and work to overcome them.
Lead From Within: Being a great leader is an ongoing journey, and to be the best leader you can be, don’t let old myths and misconceptions ever hold you back.
#1 N A T I O N A L B E S T S E L L E R
The Leadership Gap
What Gets Between You and Your Greatness
After decades of coaching powerful executives around the world, Lolly Daskal has observed that leaders rise to their positions relying on a specific set of values and traits. But in time, every executive reaches a point when their performance suffers and failure persists. Very few understand why or how to prevent it.
Additional Reading you might enjoy:
- 12 Successful Leadership Principles That Never Grow Old
- A Leadership Manifesto: A Guide To Greatness
- How to Succeed as A New Leader
- 12 of The Most Common Lies Leaders Tell Themselves
- 4 Proven Reasons Why Intuitive Leaders Make Great Leaders
- The One Quality Every Leader Needs To Succeed
- The Deception Trap of Leadership
Of Lolly’s many awards and accolades, Lolly was designated a Top-50 Leadership and Management Expert by Inc. magazine. Huffington Post honored Lolly with the title of The Most Inspiring Woman in the World. Her writing has appeared in HBR, Inc.com, Fast Company (Ask The Expert), Huffington Post, and Psychology Today, and others. Her newest book, The Leadership Gap: What Gets Between You and Your Greatness has become a national bestseller.