How do I become a great leader?
Measuring a leader’s success
A newly minted first-line leader in my organization once asked me this question.
It was a great question. Sadly, I didn’t have a prepared answer for her. And that both surprised and bothered me.
I’m fortunate that I’ve been at the game for quite a while, both in and out of uniform. And I’ve had the privilege of working with a few outstanding leaders — as my superior, a peer, or a subordinate.
How do you measure success as a leader?
There are undoubtedly many different answers to this question. Here’s mine.
Success as a leader is, first and foremost, a personal metric. It is also largely contextual.
What do I mean by this?
First, any definition of a successful leader is subjective. It is based on our training, education, and past experiences. It is also shaped by our values, principles, and character traits.
My definition of success as a leader fits me and my leadership style. But it may not work for you.
Second, it is contextual because leadership is both art and science.
The science of leadership involves knowledge and understanding of the principles, theories, behaviors, and practices behind effective leadership. On the other hand, the art of leadership involves the skillful application of the principles and techniques in a given circumstance.
Like artists, influential leaders use their knowledge and skills creatively to produce desired results. And like art, successful leadership is in the beholder's eye”.
A Leadership Manifesto
Finally, you haven’t defined what successful leadership is unless you write it down. If you don't already have one, you need a leadership manifesto.
Your leadership manifesto is a focused statement of your intent and commitment to specific leadership behaviors based on your values and beliefs.
Your manifesto is a clear expression of what success as a leader means to you.
It’s also how you intend to become a great leader.
