One needn't to be a CEO or a politician to be a leader.If your actions inspire others to dream more,learn more,do more and become more,you're a leader. The key to becoming such a leader lies in character.What is the character?It involves three basic things --the intellect or knowledge,the emotions and the morality of a person.These things combine and create somebody's character.People follow only those who they respect,trust and admire. What character traits do such a leader have?Below are five of the most important.

 

Courage.Leaders have courage.The New York firefighters who ran into the burning World Trade towers to resue others are modernday models of courage.Yet even more than physical courage,the everyday demands of modern life reqire moral courage.Insisting on doing the right things despite pressure to act otherwise takes such courage.Leaders must face fear and doubt in many of the decisions they make.Having those feelings doesn't mean one isn't courageous.After all,courage is not the absence of fear.Rather,it's doing the right thing despite one's fears. 

 

Humanity.Leaders are humble.Being humble simply means having an accurate view of one's own limitations.Everybody has limitations.Leaders do with theirs by seeking help from others.When leaders seek help,they recognize the skills that other people bring to the table.And when they are successful,leaders generously praise all who contribute to the success.Humble leaders don't promote themselves--they promote others.Learning is a lifelong pursuit no matter one's position.Humble leaders are never too proud to learn from all sources of knowledge,even those under them.

 

Serving others.Leaders serve ohters.Jesus Christ said" if anyone wants to be first,he must be the very last and servant of all". Leaders serve ohters and put the need of other people before themselves.They make the good of everyone on the team a personal priority.Leaders who serve ohters help the whole team accomplish more.Leaders do things like making sure everybody has the resources needed.They will go the extra mile to help out during a busy rush.When leaders serve,followers are also encouraged to serve each other.

 

Passion.Leaders have passion.Money or success can motivate someone to show up for an activity,but what motivates one to really put his heart into something?The answer is passion--the feeling that the activity is significant.Outstanding leaders inspire others because they are motivated by passion for what they do.Leaders show the significance of routine work to others by emphasizing the big picture.They demonstrate how an activity not only benefits the individual,but also one's family,commuity and entire society. Their passion ignites the passion of others.     

 

Integrity.Leaders have integrity.One's intetrity can be measured by what one does when nobody is looking.Leaders practise what they preach all the time,not just in the present of others.Leaders also set the example for integrity.If a leader value being punctual, he arrives early.If a leader wants everyone to work hard,he works harder.

 

Leadership is more about who you are than what you know or can do.By following these principles you can become a better person,and that in turn will make you a better leader.