Habits of successful leaders

Both personal and business success is based on your ability as a leader. For some of us, it might come naturally, but for the rest of us, we become great leaders by adopting a certain mindset and way of doing things. As you practice making better choices, these choices then become habits, and of course, good habits shape your performance as a leader. In the changing world we now find ourselves in, it has never been more important to put effort into tweaking our day-to-day habits as we navigate through the daily interactions and challenges that we face.

Effective communication
Effective leadership begins with effective communication across a variety of different situations. Communication comes in different forms and it is important to know how to speak to people one-on-one as well as in small and larger group settings. Engage in conversations with intention and purpose and be mindful of the language you use. Figure out your strengths and weaknesses within each unique situation and develop techniques to help you where improvement is needed. 

Avoid micromanagement
For those of us who are super-efficient, it can be tempting to get involved with designing detailed processes and certain away of doing things. However, this can lead to resentment from team members who might feel controlled or mistrusted. Keep an eye on productivity but trust that your team knows their jobs better than you do. Your role is to facilitate process improvements rather than get involved in the actual processes. 

Self-awareness
It’s difficult to lead other people if you aren’t aware of yourself and how you come across to others. You might overlook your weak points or equally not recognise habits that might cause friction with those in your team. Ask your employees, colleagues, or business partners to be honest with you. Let go of your ego and once you identify your weaknesses or areas of improvement, you can then find strategies to compensate for them. We are all human. The more self-aware you become, the better leader you will be.

Authenticity
People pay close attention to what you do and say so it’s important to behave in a way that is true to yourself and your beliefs. People can tell if you aren’t being genuine and will be unlikely to believe in your leadership or work to achieve your goals if you behave in this way. Authenticity is crucial for building trust which in turn enables you to deliver great results. Follow up on what you say with actions. Honour your word and make room for what you say is important. Show up every day in a way that aligns with your beliefs. 

Approachability
The most effective leaders draw people to them. People are more likely to resonate with someone who feels on the same level as them but with the added power of being able to make their jobs easier and more successful. Try not to bring any rigidity into your demeanour and ditch the formal attitude. Think of ways you can encourage others to come to you when they need you most. Make yourself available.

Build positive relationships
Build relationships inside and outside of your own team. This will enable you to help navigate any political issues that may arise. Stay well- connected and develop a rapport with people and keep in touch with them. Relationship building is difficult, but it can lead to excellent business opportunities and other beneficial connections. You never know when a relationship can be leveraged to help you in the future. 

Growth mindset
Continued learning can help keep you creative, particularly in times of unexpected challenges, and it gives you the ability the see problems from different perspectives. Open yourself up to new learning and encourage others to do the same. See it as a welcome challenge and maintain flexibility and adaptability. 

Allow for ‘me time’
It’s absolutely vital to find time for reflection and self-care. Excess stress can hinder performance and future opportunities. If you’re feeling burnt-out, this is a huge wake-up call to take time out to rest and recover. Stop checking emails the instant you wake up, skip unnecessary meetings, and lighten your load. Design a self-care plan that works for you and remember that you cannot give what you don’t have. 

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