1. They Read

Great leaders understand the value that comes with reading–Reading is one of the most efficient ways to acquire information and knowledge. But more than that, reading increases our ability to communicate effectively, expands our capacity for empathy, broadens our perspectives, and inspires creativity. The list of benefits to reading is endless–it’s a must for transformational leaders!

 

2. They Prioritize Their Body & Health

This one goes back to our motto, “Take care of you, for me.” One cannot lead, or care for others, or accomplish that which he was created for, if his health–mental, physical, or emotional–is lacking. To be transformational leaders, we must take care of ourselves and steward our health so that we have the ability to lead effectively.

 

3. They Increase Everything They Have

Great leaders are great stewards–and there is much more to stewardship than simply maintaining. True stewards increase everything that is placed in their care. From money, to their health, to their relationships, great leaders work to improve and increase the value of every thing in their lives.

Whatever you leave in the hands of a good steward, it is the least it will ever be.

 

4. They Never Stop Learning

Transformational leaders understand the importance of ongoing personal and professional growth, and are committed to never stop learning. They embrace new challenges and seek out opportunities to expand their knowledge, skills, and perspectives. Through continuous learning, they are able to stay ahead of the curve, inspire their teams, and drive innovation. These leaders understand that there is always more to learn and strive to stay curious, open-minded, and adaptable in the face of change.

 

5. They Surround Themselves With People Who Challenge Them

Great leaders surround themselves with people who will push them out of their comfort zone, challenge their perspectives, and call them to a higher level. There’s a popular quote by Jim Rohn that puts it perfectly: “You are the average of the five people you spend the most time with.”

For example: If most of your time is spent with individuals who have to motivation or determination to grow and succeed, and who prefer to spend their free time watching Netflix and going shopping, your time will most likely be spent in the same ways, and your future won’t look much different.

Whereas, if your time is spent around successful mentors who spend their free time exercising, reading, and learning new and useful skills, you will be more motivated to engage in the same activities, and there’s a high possibility for success and guaranteed growth in your future.

Pushing ourselves (in every aspect of our lives) is essential for growth and successful leadership!

 

 

6. They Lead With Integrity

Unfortunately, not all leaders lead with integrity. However, true transformational leaders are not willing to sacrifice their integrity in order to succeed or get ahead.

Great leaders choose to do the right thing, whether it be in public or in the privacy of their home. This specifically plays into character. Those with strong character, unwavering values, and steadfast integrity, are those we can rely on to lead well and justly.

 

7. They Develop More Leaders

Transformational leaders create more leaders, not followers. They cultivate an environment and atmosphere of growth and empowerment, developing those under them so that they can impact change and transformation in their own spheres of influence.

 

8. They Empower Others

True leadership is less about the title, and more about the people. Great leaders call out the gold and the potential of those they are entrusted to, helping them to refine their character and strengthen their skills so that they too can be confident in their own leadership.

 

9. They Think Generationally 

Rabindranath Tagore said, “The one who plants trees, knowing that he will never sit in their shade, has at least started to understand the meaning of life.”

Transformational leaders are driven by a noble purpose that goes beyond their personal gain or reputation. They recognize that their legacy is not defined by individual accomplishments but by the positive impact they make on future generations. Their focus is on planting seeds of growth and progress that will bear fruit for years to come, regardless of whether they witness the full fruition of their efforts in their own lifetime.

 

10. They Build Things That Will Outlast Them

As generational-thinkers, transformational leaders understand that their true impact will be felt long after they are gone, They dedicate themselves to creating something that will endure beyond their lifetime. This may involve investing time and resources into developing the next generation of leaders who will carry on their vision or establishing innovative systems and processes that will continue to drive progress and growth. For transformational leaders, the goal is not just to achieve short-term success, but to create something that will last forever, leaving a lasting and meaningful impact on the world.

 

11. They Serve

“If serving is beneath you, then leadership is beyond you.” – Rory Vaden

The true essence of leadership is service–service to a cause greater than one’s own self. Rather than managing simply for control and results, transformational leaders focus on creating an environment in which their team can thrive and individuals can grow.

 

12. They Do Things With Excellence

Transformational leaders are known for their unwavering commitment to excellence in all that they do. They believe that anything worth doing is worth doing well, and they are not content with mediocrity or average results. These leaders set high standards for themselves and their followers, constantly pushing the boundaries of what is possible and inspiring others to do the same. To create things that last, it must be done with excellence.

 

13. They Seek to Understand

Where there is misunderstanding, there is often division. Most conflict can be easily resolved by communication that fosters understanding. Transformational leaders appreciate the different personalities, temperaments, and learning styles of all people, and commit themselves to learning about the unique design of each of their followers so that they may lead more effectively.

 

14. They Listen Attentively

Transformational leaders possess exceptional listening skills, attentively engaging with their followers, colleagues, and stakeholders to gain valuable insights into their needs and aspirations. Transformational leaders do not just hear what others are saying; they actively seek to understand and process the information they receive, using it to inform their decision-making and actions. By responding thoughtfully and empathetically, they build trust, respect, and encourage collaboration.

 

15. They Manage Their Time Well

Leaders recognize the value of time and steward it well. They are careful to spend it wisely, being selective with what they make time for and by avoiding time-wasters. Their highest priorities lie with that which will drive them forward, be it reading, exercising, or cultivating relationships and spending time with family and community.

 

16. They Welcome Different Perspectives

Transformational leaders value diverse perspectives, welcoming input from all members of their team and stakeholders. They recognize that innovation comes from different points of view and actively seek out new ideas. Through inclusive decision-making, they cultivate a culture of respect, collaboration, and creativity, leading to better outcomes.