MightyRecruiterFrom the early observations of Kurt Lewin to the modern theories of psychologist Daniel Goldman, scientists have spent years studying the characteristics of wise leadership as they pertain to productivity and motivation. Despite varying opinions, one thing is certain ïeach individual style has both positive and negative qualities. To become a wise leader, you must combine the most effective traits from each style of leadership and eliminate those that stifle creativity and communication. As a result, we have compiled a list of 6 basic characteristics to help you cultivate an attitude of clarity and purpose in the workplace.
Perspective
Your professional point of view has a significant impact on the way you choose to handle different situations. It can even affect your ability to solve problems depending on how you view the circumstances. For example, many people tend to focus only on short-term objectives and shy away from ideas that incorporate unique perspectives. On the other hand, some leaders become fixated on long-term opportunities, ignoring valuable input from followers. Avoid these common pitfalls by taking note of consistent patterns and connecting crucial observations to a motivating purpose or ideal. By reaching for a noble vision of success, you will naturally learn to bring out the best qualities in others.
Action Orientation
How a leader chooses to respond to a challenge is also a strong indicator of wise leadership and judgment. This means you must be able to assess procedural risks in a fast-paced environment to make decisions that align with your foundational purpose. Leaders who don’t adapt well to organizational change struggle to act outside the boundaries of standard procedures, while those who respond impulsively often sacrifice communication and lose sight of their original vision. Either way, you are left with little authenticity to rectify disputes if you are unable to strike a balance between extreme caution and unnecessary risk.
Role Clarity
Another important characteristic of wise leadership is a clear sense of priority and expectations. No matter which role must be assumed, they are well aware of what needs to be accomplished and will gladly relinquish control in order to achieve the most effective results. Some people find it difficult to step outside the confining walls of comfort to accept new roles within an organization. However, those who develop an inflated sense of pride may have trouble allowing others to take the reins on a project. Ultimately, the person who is best qualified to complete a task is the one who should also take the lead in terms of execution.
Decision Logic
Every leader has a unique set of principles that are used to evaluate the validity of a decision. Low-risk decisions are typically the easiest to make because they involve predictable actions and perspectives, but some leaders favor high-impact decisions that come with extensive rewards. This type of behavior fails to incorporate the personal or ethical values of an organization. Instead, exercise discernment by assessing the situation as a whole, and don’t forget to consider alternative suggestions. Wise leadership means you must consult with others to determine which course of action is in the best interest of the company.
Flexible Fortitude
People who are put in a position of leadership are often subjected to periods of trial and adversity. How you choose to confront these difficult circumstances has a direct influence on organizational change and transformation. While persistence may be admirable in certain situations, you must also know when to revise your original plan in order to recover quickly after a setback. Stick with decisions that reinforce the foundational purpose of your organization and don’t forget to learn from previous mistakes. Leaders who exhibit personal and professional fortitude will also find that it is easier to enlist the support of followers in the future.
Drivers of Motivation
The final characteristic that is used to identify wise leadership is the structure of intrinsic desires that motivates professional behavior. These basic internal forces can drive an individual on multiple levels and reflect both discipline and resolve. Although many people take on leadership roles to gain recognition or financial stability, it is important to use organizational goals as a blueprint for your own desires. In this way, your behavior as a leader reinforces the concept of purpose and productivity rather than centering on personal rewards. Whether you are temporarily assuming a new role or accepting a permanent promotion, these 6 traits are crucial to your development as a wise leader. To learn more about cultivating these constructive characteristics, take advantage of the resources available here at Mighty Recruiter.