“Outstanding people have one thing in common; an absolute sense of mission.” — Hilary Hinton "Zig" Ziglar (1926–2012), author, salesman, motivational speaker.

Behind every inspiring leader exists a strong intention. Great leaders have an inner compass that guides their daily decision-making. Such leaders are authentic, clear with regards to what is important to them and stand by their values. Their actions are aligned with who they are.

What is your leadership voice?

Mahatma Gandhi, the preeminent leader of Indian nationalism in British-ruled India (1869–1948) said, “Be the change you want to see in the world.” He led by example when creating a non-violent way of protesting against injustices.

What leadership role are you drawn towards? Do you want to make a difference in the world? If so, what’s important for you as a leader? Why?

This online exercise can support your exploration.
http;//www.franklincovey.com/msb/inspired/mission_statement_examples

One’s leadership stance and long-term commitment is a process that continuously evolves. Such exercises expand one’s awareness through reflection and can bring forth greater focus and clarity.

As Jack Welch (1935- ), past Chairman of General Electric said, "Good business leaders create a vision, articulate the vision, passionately own the vision, and relentlessly drive it to completion."

As a result of your leadership, what changes do you want to bring to humanity, to an organization, to a specific project, etc.? Imagine yourself in front of a blank canvas where numerous possibilities are available. Werner Hans Erhard (1935- ), author of transformational models, applications for individuals, groups and organizations said, “Create your future from your future, not your past.”

Once one has defined their vision as a leader, one can begin identifying the necessary actions that are required to attain that vision. What are the milestones that need to be put in place and what specific timeframes are necessary for them to be accomplished?

One’s actions are more effective when their goals and milestones are specific. Envisioning the detailed process leading up to one’s successful outcome can be a supportive exercise. Rehearsing an interview with a friend is another instance. Dialogues highlighting the series of actions or steps taken in order to achieve a particular goal can be very helpful. Clarity is power.

Defining one’s core values are also important when developing a leadership voice. What values influence your choices as a leader? Integrity, respect, excellence, responsibility, and justice, to mention a few, are some examples which vary from one individual to another. Aligning one’s actions with their values is powerful.

One’s overall appearance is another influential form of communication. What image reflects who you are? Is your presentation aligned with your leadership position? Presentation includes verbal and non-verbal communication such as one’s language and diction, body language, facial expressions, gestures, attire, etc.

What message do you want to transmit as a leader? Robin S. Sharma (1964- ), Canadian lawyer, leadership expert and author says; “Extraordinary human beings live their message. They walk their talk. And above all else, they are inspirational.”

Resources;
Mission Statement Examples, Samples | Mission Statement Builder. Franklin Covey, n.d. Web. (viewed on 26.05.2013).
Sharma, Robin S. The Greatness Guide. London; HarperCollins Publishers Ltd., 2009. Print.
"Zig Ziglar." Wikipedia. Wikimedia Foundation, 20 May 2013. Web. (viewed on 26.05.2013).


About the Author


A combination of experience in entrepreneurship, leadership, creative direction - branding design and coaching leaders

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Leadership coaching | Business coaching | Professional coaching | Coaching de gestion | Presentations | Brainstorming ideas |Branding | International living | Communication expert

Patricia can be contacted by e-mail at patricia@lagopatis.com or by calling 450-933-6138.