Studying and discussing leadership and its meaning, types, and characteristics, I realized how leadership is more in our lives than we recognize. Most of the time we approach the subject is thinking about the corporate world, but we also see leadership in a political and even informal environment in our private lives.
I had never stopped to think about the real differences between a leader and a manager. And probably because of this, I never had cognized that you do not necessarily need to be one to be the other. Now I understand that the first one is more operational; it is a person that will set priorities and make decisions. The second one is more of a coach; they influence and give encouragement and inspiration. A manager can be a leader, but not necessarily a leader will be a manager. You can influence people's lives without being the person in the position to get things done, and you can be the person in charge, but not necessarily have the qualities to inspire others.
Having said that and thinking about leaders who have been in my personal life and inspired or coached me, it made perfect sense that the first person that came to mind was my father. I had never considered him to be a leader before, probably because he had never worked in a managerial position, and I had not differentiated the meanings of the two things. But now, seeing the difference, my association with him and the idea of leadership is understandable. He has always been the biggest motivator in my life. Having the ability to influence myself in the search for improvements and more knowledge and inspire me to always challenge myself.
Some qualities of leaders that I see in him, and I believe that are part of a good leader are, communicative efficiency, he always expresses himself well, being direct in what he says but at the same time considerate in the way he speaks; honesty and integrity, he is always frank, ethical, and fair; he is a point of strength and stability, no matter what problems or changes we are going through; a good mentor, always willing to guide and help me grow to my full potential.
In addition to these qualities that I see in him, and that I would like to improve in myself, there are others that I also believe are very important for a leader. How to solve problems, have the mindset of seeing a problem as an opportunity for growth; and motivation, a good leader inspires other people to achieve things they did not even think they could.
