Article by Amy Collett
Whether you’re a natural-born leader or are a bit more hesitant to take the reins, honing your skills is an essential part of leadership. To lead effectively, you need to explore not only your motivations and perspective but those of the people you’re in charge of guiding.
When it comes to self-improvement, becoming a better leader is a worthwhile investment of your time. And with these resources from By George Coaching, you can elevate your skills no matter where or when you want to dive in.
Follow Great Minds
A free and easy way to start working on your leadership skills is by following great minds on social media and in other online spaces. From reading articles about great strides in leadership to poring over how-to articles on communicating with and guiding your team, consider casual reading as a source of inspiration.
- Explore ways to improve your communication skills to effectively share ideas.
- Work on your ability to listen to others so that you’re open to what others have to say.
- Recognize the characteristics of a good leader and adopt those qualities in your work and personal life.
Turn to Leadership Literature
Plenty of highly esteemed authors have written volumes on the concept of leadership and how to adjust your mindset for growth as a leader. Plus, reading is enormously beneficial for your communication skills and creative abilities, says Thrive Global. Consider diving into a good book on the subject so you can learn strategies you can implement in daily life (and work).
- Dive into the concept of emotional intelligence in Harvard Business Review Press’ Primal Leadership: Unleashing the Power of Emotional Intelligence.
- Learn Stephen R. Covey’s 7 Habits of Highly Effective People and effect personal change.
- Consult with Simon Sinek in Start With Why – and check out his TED Talk – to learn how to motivate and influence others in positive ways.
Head to the Classroom
Formal education isn’t just for young and ambitious college students or children. It’s also for people who want to experience growth – both personal and financial – in their careers. Determine whether you have the time and motivation to head back to the classroom for a more formal educational approach to leadership skill-building.
- Consider that going back to school could help you become a better leader.
- Join a class or workshop so you can learn alongside others with the same interests as you.
- Combine your desire for growth with your passion for learning and pursue an online degree in your spare time.
Becoming a better leader won’t happen overnight, and it’s not enough to start telling other people what to do. By learning the noteworthy traits of excellent leaders through reading, exploration, and education, and implementing those characteristics into your own life, you can elevate your professional and personal capabilities. For one-on-one support with reaching your professional goals, contact ByGeorgeCoaching for a personalized path to leadership and more.
Photo via Unsplash