The 3 Things You Need to Do to Be a Better Leader

Leadership is a discipline where art meets science.

The path to becoming a better leader is a winding, complex journey. You’ll experience unexpected twists and turns, and you will make mistakes. But that’s okay.

What’s most important is that you take a step back, hold yourself accountable, and challenge norms to push yourself to new heights. Leadership isn’t always natural – it’s a process that’s learned over time. Challenge yourself by taking the following steps:

1. DEVELOP YOUR UNIQUE PERSONA

History has given rise to certain standards that define a leader. These individuals are typically thought of as being well-dressed, masters of power-poses, and authority minded. They conform to a specific mold, and if you close your eyes, you can probably imagine this person in your mind. You may also ultimately realize that this person isn’t you.

That’s okay.

To become a successful leader, you need to take a step back from everything you’ve learned – to look past the classic leader persona and start looking in the mirror.

Leadership is subjective, and it’s crucial that you embrace your own persona.

Next time you’re reading about a great CEO or browsing the Fortune 500 list, ask yourself – “what leadership traits make me unique?”

Focus on the traits that make you a strong leader and cultivate those. Pay attention to situational dynamics at work, and let these moments guide you.

2. TEST AND ITERATE

Leadership isn’t necessarily innate – it’s often learned. This process requires continuous experimentation, trial and error. Look for ways to iterate on the persona that you established in point #1. Don’t be afraid to try new approaches or respond to a specific situation in a new way.

For instance, if you’re managing a new project at your company, and tend to lean toward a more authoritative approach, you may want to try guiding with empathy and encouragement rather than stern authority. Or vice versa.

To cover your blind spots, ask for your team to provide regular, honest feedback – perhaps through a formal or informal evaluation survey. Provide a means for anonymous feedback.

Remember that as a leader, your role is to represent your group. Rely on your team to ‘crowdsource’ your development as a leader.

3. PRACTICE THE ART OF CALM

It’s human to feel frustrated. When something goes wrong, or when you find yourself in a predicament, keep your frustrations in check. Before sending an email, lashing out at a vendor, or venting to a teammate, take a step back.

Breathe. Take a walk. Do what you can to clear your head before you act.

In high-intensity situations, it is crucial that you remain balanced, self-aware and composed.

If you practice these traits, you’ll be empowered to inspire them among others on your team.

Focus on developing a ‘frustration plan’ ahead of time, before any challenging situation comes up. That way, when you run into a tough situation, you can rely on your brain to outsmart your emotions.

FINAL THOUGHTS

Be humble, and give yourself the flexibility to make mistakes. We’re human. We’re far from infallible. And most importantly, we learn and grow together. The more we focus on learning and practicing, the more empowered we’ll be to grow.