The sense of being a leader sometimes bring in the "know it all" attitude. Are you also a victim of this self obsessed feeling of being the most powerful person in the group or the organization? If yes, then my dear friend this is the time to once again reflect on this degenerative psychology which you might follow resulting in some long term negative outcomes to you and your organization.
This "self obsessed" attitude could spread in like cancerous tumor and make you alienated among your team, colleagues, groups and organization. Superiority / arrogance, self absorption / self obsession could carry certain traits like; self focus in interpersonal exchanges, lack of empathy, difficulty in sustaining relationships, difficulty in accepting mistakes, flattery and favoritism towards those who admire and affirm them, claiming to be an "expert" in everything, inability to look at others perspective and thought of being better in every thing than others. "Toxic Leadership" (Goldman, Kets De vries) where the leaders behavior becomes erratic, self obsessed and self-serving, which results in filtering this toxicity throughout the organization, creating a toxic culture.
I feel the first and the foremost lesson of effective leadership which I could share here is realizing that you are not the most important or the most intelligent person in the room at all times. There is a big difference between "GO" and "Let's go". A leader's attitude is caught more by his or her follower rather than his words or actions. What attitude you carry, would be my next question to you all? Still in thought process, then let me simplify some basics to overcome this degenerative disease:
- Set an example
- Humility
- Inspiration
- Encouragement
- Recognition
- Focus on collective interests
- Integrity
- Clear focus
- Visionary
"Don't tell people to do the things, tell them what to do and let them surprise you with the results".
-George.S.Patton
The employees too want to be fully engaged and committed to what they are doing. They want to claim their part of recognition and fame. It is imperative for leaders to instill a sense of passion and confidence in the people they're leading. When people work alongside an authentic leader, they get more involved and responsible. A collective spirit of team work and loyalty can spread throughout the organization resulting in high morale and productive output.
Leaders become great, not because of their power, but because of their ability to empower others.
-John Maxwell