Leading with Character

Facing Half Dome - 2008

Yosemite National Park, CA

Challenges and Leadership

Great, existential challenges have a remarkable way of evoking different reactions from individuals with diverse personalities. The responses may range from cowering fear to towering bravery. The latter is witnessed in men known for their genuine boldness as well as the man who has been perceived as quietly meek. This seemingly outward meekness is sometimes misunderstood for a quiet, steadfast resolve. 

Who Are These Leaders?

Exemplary leaders may be found at a humble home, small and large businesses, hospitals, churches and government bodies. The list is virtually endless. 

Some have a long record of leadership service; others seem to arise to meet the challenge that confronts them.You may have witnessed, as I have, a range of behavior of individuals in the face of crisis:

The usually, boldly verbose that remains uncharacteristically quiet. Or the quiet man that emerges confidently from the shadows where he resides comfortably within himself, to rise to the occasion.

The latter is the meek man who habitually listens and hears his character guide him to the true North of his purpose. The challenges he conquers are the venue for validating himself to the core of his being. That sense of being is his internal identity…how he sees himself. In a previous article, I discussed internal vs. external identity as well as the persona.)

Usually, it is that caliber of character that motivates such leaders to serve not themselves, but the best interests of others.

There are times when the “quiet man” serves as the example to rise up and serve the needs of the moment.

You can probably recognize who they are as you read these words. 

Beyond Rare Crises, How Does Leadership Develop?

Virtually anyone has the potential to become a leader. There is no requirement that you be a “born leader,” the existence of which is doubtful. Nor must you be chosen by appointment or be elected to public office. It certainly should not be an endowment. 

You can choose to lead and become a leader.

Leadership skills are acquired through a developmental process that may occur through deliberate education, experiencing life’s challenges or frequently both. Life’s trials, especially, are the circumstances that reaffirm our character and develop it, as we exercise wisdom and good judgment. 

The styles and characteristics of great leaders are legion. Some can be readily described. Others, not so much so as they are more nuanced. Yet, there are certain leadership skills that are essential, such as:

• The ability to create a vision and communicate it clearly. 
• The practice of demonstrating care and respect for those your lead.
• The demonstration of resolute devotion to a just cause.
• The commitment and practice of helping develop aspiring leaders.
• The confidence to “make room” for emerging leaders to truly develop their skills.

These are critical traits that manifests as purposeful, resolute leadership. 

Whether you are an experienced leader or new to the role, leadership originates and endures from the fountain of your character.

What Are the Characteristics of Exemplary Character?

Exemplary character is evident in an individual who knows Who he is and his life’s purpose. He remains steadfast to both. 

A true leader does not need a dictionary to learn the meaning of integrity. 

Integrity and commitment to a just cause are the foundation of the courage necessary to motivate a leader to serve. It requires courage to sacrifice and elevate oneself to meet the challenge of a noble, grand purpose. 

Exceptional leaders, at their core, instinctively serve the best interests of those they lead. At times, without knowing it, they will also serve others they will never meet who will benefit from their efforts and goodwill.

A Pearl of Wisdom Born of Endurance

I once had the privilege of being introduced the writings of Dr. Viktor E. Frankl. He was a psychiatrist who practiced in Vienna until the early days of World War II. It was then that he and his family were imprisoned in a concentration camp. He survived and resumed his practice. Later, he expressed the essence of his experience, how he responded and endured it in his memorable book: Man’s Search for Meaning.  I honor him by quoting from it:

“…it did not really matter what we expected from life, but rather what life expected from us.”

“Life ultimately means taking the responsibility to find the right answer to its problems and to fulfill the tasks which it constantly sets for each individual.”

My Encouragement to You

The philosophical and practical foundations that are the basis for success in your life as you lead yourself through it, is that you have:

 Clarity. Conviction. Courage.

That is: Clarity of Identity, Conviction of purpose and the Courage to express it.

There is personal affirmation, renewal and reward in knowing that you have the ability to lead and that you are true to that potential! This may occur as a new experience or as a developing leader.

Look and you will find the leader within you that responds with purposeful action. 

A worthy response to a noble cause is leadership of yourself and others. You will find it where authentic leadership originates: within yourself!

Updated: June 23, 2023

PS: By the way, do you want to learn more from me about how to create a positive End of Career Transition and a fulfilling life beyond? I would like to help you. I provide consulting and coaching services that are tailored to your specific needs. Click here to apply for an introductory conversation.

John and Margaret Cunningham Cabin, 1888

Photo - 2010

Grand Teton National Park, WY