Greetings Leaders,
For over 30 years we have gathered data on the characteristics people most want to see in their leaders. On the survey, respondents select 7 of 20 listed characteristics. Courageous is usually not one of the traits frequently selected. Many will then say that there are simply a number of other offered characteristics more important to them than courage. Fair enough. However, when we more closely examine those leaders that many say they admire, showing courage certainly is a recurring theme among them.
Often people view courage as a daring, life-threatening action, like rushing into a burning building to rescue children and animals. No doubt about it, that takes courage, bravery, or whatever similar word you want to use. (That definition may provide some rationale for its lower score on the survey.) But there is another part of courage, which is more relevant for leaders. It is about the willingness to stand up for one’s values and beliefs, especially in difficult times. Think about that.
Does it require courage to be honest, when bone honesty might cost you a big sale, or derail a new job opportunity? Does it take courage to commit to a bold vision, which is based mostly on hopeful possibilities, rather than sure things? Does it take courage to be vulnerable and publicly admit when you are wrong? Does it take courage to confront a boss, whom you see ignoring agreed upon values and standards, in order to achieve more personal gain? Yes, yes, yes, and yes.
The root of the word courage means heart, so you might say demonstrating courage is a test of the heart. It takes heart to be willing to breathe in deep and step forward when it is risky to do so. We certainly need leaders who are willing to take that step, rather than staying safely nestled in their own personal comfort zones.
As you already know, leading others frequently involves tough challenges and difficult decisions. From initiating those really “tough conversations” with others to combating the fear of attempting something new which may result in an embarrassing failure, leaders must constantly demonstrate and therefore model courage. As the winds of resistance continue to grow stronger, people need their leaders – like you – to stand firm for them and the causes to which you all are committed.
One final reminder: it is much easier to stand up and move forward when you know you have support from others, and you are not going it alone. So, always be there for those around you, if you want them to act courageously as well.
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