A Complete Description of the Consummate Leader (that you have not read before)
Many have defined the characteristics, tools, and methods of superior leadership. There are enough published books and essays to fill the cargo beds of a C-141 aircraft. A truncated description that I favor is one published by General Steven Lorenz, USAF. General Lorenz - fair, firm, and demanding. That was a great start but got me to thinking.
I recall General Lee’s missive to General John Hood where he wrote, “They (the Army) will go anywhere and do anything if properly led. But there is the difficulty — proper commanders.” One glance at the list below and it becomes obvious why it is so hard to find capable senior leaders.
Passionate/caring
Motivation
Enthusiastic
Strong character
Facilitator
Teacher/coach
Intelligent (in most cases, not intellectual)
Indifferent to self-feelings
Dramatist (good actor when necessary)
Influential
Cheerleader
Visionary
Sound judgment/prudence
Sober
Impatient (when necessary)
Analytical
Objective
Self-confident
Self-control
Calm in crisis
Wary of staff consensus
Courageous
Decisive
Extreme situational awareness
No fear of accountability
Non-emotional in critical decisions
Sage-like
Edge (you figure out what that means)
Promptitude