Character
~ Abraham Lincoln
How true is this statement? How many of us can read it and just know that it’s an honest statement from someone who has felt the effect of power that corrupted. I have seen it a few times myself, being left with sour tastes in my mouth when someone gets a promotion and does a 180 over night. It can leave you bitter, hurt and angry at the very least to be the victim of such a turn in character.
Character is such an important concept to us as a people. It’s mentioned in literature, movies and pop culture. Does the “hero” have the strength of character? Is he true? That’s what we want to know, that’s what we long to find out when we go to these movies or read these books.
In the work place character has just as much importance and significance. It can help you get a job promotion as quick as it can loose it for you. It will tell you if people will follow you or why they will not follow you. Character is your inner strength and what you choose to show. How you act. Are you genuine?
True leaders are. You can give them power, responsibility and know and trust that they will do the right thing by them. They will not over shadow a worker but instead help them shine. They will not look for means of advancement but rather fill in the holes of what is missing and thus advance everyone.
Character is what you as a leader fall back on when the going gets tough. When you get that promotion and move to that new level only to realize you don’t know a lot about what is going on. Character is what will see you through. Your sense of purpose and doing what is right for not just yourself but those whom you now lead will show if you are true or not.
What would a leader do?
~ Be true to yourself and your vision of the role you now take. Are you doing things for the right reasons or for personal gain?
~ Always re-examine your motives and ensure your time is on-board with where you are taking them.
~ Authority and power are nothing compared to what you can achieve with teamwork. Take a moment to have a fun team work moment with your group today.
