Why do we lead.
Most of us never intended to lead. We didn’t start out at school with an intention to lead or to get into leadership. However, as we progress along our career paths, we find ourselves leading other human beings, both directly and indirectly - our jobs would be simpler if we didn’t have to.
While some general characteristics remain the same, leadership looks very different from one person to the next. It is easy to look at one person and question their leadership qualities because they differ from your own, or that of a mentor. Much like historical figures who might have once been questioned during their time, years later we might see the positive impact they had. Embrace and utilize the leadership strengths you see in your team – try not to criticize simply because it isn’t your view on leadership.
Why do we lead? We lead because it is the vehicle to move things forward. We lead because we must – whether we want to or not. Yes, some people enjoy leading people and set out on that path deliberately, but for most of us it’s somewhat of a by-product of our work while advancing in our professional careers. The difference is embracing it once you realize it’s upon you.
Don't get too lost on your shortcomings in leadership, but rather focus on your strengths and use that as your differentiation. While we need to pay attention to, and work on, our leadership deficiencies, our primary focus ought to be using our leadership strengths.
Once we realize we are now in a position that requires “leadership” we need to learn how to improve. If you don’t improve, then you likely won’t advance. There is no set rule to leading, it is based on your personality. This can make it fun as you can apply your own style, but it will also leave you dumbfounded at times because every interaction will be so different.
Try to learn what your strengths are (and are not). Look to connect with others who you think you could learn from. Once you are paying attention (to this strange phenomenon called leadership) you'll become more self-aware, which is a great start.