“Sustained fulfillment comes from knowing that we, and our work, matter.” - Simon Sinek

When you own a business, it goes without saying that you must be a leader. The question is: are great leaders born with the qualities they need to succeed, or are these qualities something that can be developed through training and experience? There are arguments for both sides of this statement which has been debated over hundreds of years.

Some individuals inherit traits that help them succeed as leaders; however, just because someone is born with these characteristics doesn't mean they are motivated to take the necessary steps to become a strong leader. On the other hand, individuals can work to develop their leadership skills over time, even when they aren't born with specific, effective leadership traits.

ARE YOU A "BORN LEADER"?

Do you have a natural inclination toward making decisions and taking charge of situations? Do you have the confidence, charisma, assertiveness, intelligence and instinctive ability to influence and inspire others? Born leaders are naturally predisposed to leadership roles thanks to possessing inherent traits associated with strong leadership.

ARE YOU A "MADE LEADER"?

As opposed to the idea that great leaders are born with the abilities and qualities necessary to lead others effectively, there is the argument that determination, experience, and passion are more important than innate characteristics. Made leaders might not have been born with genetically inherited leadership traits but can develop their skills through continuous learning.

It is important to understand that both types of individuals can succeed as leaders. Though born leaders might have an advantage because of inheriting specific traits, this doesn't necessarily predispose them to succeed in every situation. They might not have the same commitment to growth and learning as made leaders who have had to dedicate themselves to enhancing their leadership skills. Successful leadership often requires a combination of learned skills and innate qualities. Individuals are a composite mix of personality traits, beliefs, and characteristics.

LEADERSHIP READINESS

Being successful as a leader is about much more than how intelligent you are or what skills you possess. It’s about what you do and how you treat the people you are leading. Here are twelve truths that validate or discredit you as a respected leader.

1. If your team is failing, you are the problem.

2. If you can’t handle criticism, you are unfit to lead.

3. Your title may identify you as a manager but does not validate you as a leader.

4. Remember TEAM means “together everyone achieves more”. Don’t play favourites.

5. Trust your team. Micromanaging destroys your team’s trust in you.

6. When you don’t build up your team you are diminishing them.

7. If your team can’t express themselves honestly, you have failed them as a leader.

8. If you are unaccountable, you are not credible. Admit your mistakes.

9. Know the difference between setting the pace and setting the standard. Excellence is catching.

10. You work for your team; they don’t work for you.

11. Set the examples that inspire; words alone are hollow.

12. Take the blame but share the fame.

“Made" leaders will often seek out leadership development opportunities, invest in self-improvement, and learn from their advisors’ personal experiences. “Born” leaders always have the choice to continually learn new skills in areas where they may be weak. Ultimately, leadership development, training, and practical experience can significantly impact a leader's effectiveness, particularly when they are committed to improving their skills.