Successful leaders are many things. Their actions are admired; they stand by what they believe in; they keep their promises; and they are real people. Successful leadership comes from building a mutual feeling of trust and confidence with your family, your staff and other constituents. Having the courage to address difficult issues and act on your convictions creates a sense of trust and confidence between you and the people around you. This is no easy task. I would recommend these tips for those who strive to be successful leaders:

  • SET A CLEAR COURSE. Make sure everyone you lead understands where they contribute and how. A strong connection between individual and team performance and overall organizational goals will help boost your company’s performance and make it a great place to work.
  • COMMIT TO BEING A LIFELONG LEARNER. Learning can come from formal and informal sources, our achievements and our mistakes, our co-workers, business colleagues, and extended family and friends. Be open to feedback that will make you better at your role and in whatever you aspire to be.
  • BE HUMBLE. Share credit for success across the organization.
  • HAVE A PERSONAL COACH. You won’t always see things the way others do. Choose someone without an agenda who is prepared to give you a view through an unfiltered lens.
  • TRUST YOUR INSTINCTS—they have been a large part of your past success.
  • BUILD ALLIANCES both inside and outside your company. You will need them often, and they show that you are resourceful and well-connected.
  • SHOW COMPASSION. Business can be ruthless. Don’t lose sight of what is really important—the people around you.
  • TREASURE YOUR CHILDREN and make them your No. 1 priority.
  • NURTURE YOUR RELATIONSHIP with your spouse or significant other. This is the relationship that often gets the shortest straw.
  • “PLAY” WITH YOUR GIRLFRIENDS (and guy friends). These connections sustain us.
  • GIVE BACK TO THE COMMUNITY, however you choose to define it.

In my career, I’ve been fortunate to have had the opportunity to lead in many capacities. The personal and professional relationships I’ve developed along the way have made my journey even more enjoyable.