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So many different kinds of personalities and styles are represented when we begin the conversation about leadership. There is some basic principles that I believe each leader should possess if he/she wants to influence people. The 6 above books I highly recommend to anyone who has found themselves in a position of authority or influence. All of us influence someone and have the opportunity to make an impact as God places us in different settings to stretch our potential.

Here is a list of some principles I have learned as I seek to become a better leader:

1. Listen People want to be heard, no matter how old or how young they may be. Do you find yourself waiting for someone to stop talking so you can pipe in with your opinions about their comments? Good leaders listen to those God has entrusted to their care.

2. Spend time with people Some of the best moments of leadership is being with people in unique settings. You cannot be successful in leadership if you are not with people. If you are not with the people you are leading you miss the opportunity to share teachable moments and develop strong relationships with those you are leading.

3. Keep Growing & Learning Howard Hendricks says “stop growing today, stop teaching tomorrow”. The same principle applies to leadership: read, watch, grow, learn, ask, teach… Good leaders recognize learning is a lifelong pursuit, each day is a new endeavor to pursue excellence and to become the best you can be.

4. Available There are some unbelievable tools available that help us stay connected with people. Some examples, email, websites, blogs, facebook, cell phones (texting). We live in a world that is connected and searching for Real Life people to help them with the issues they are facing. Be Available and remember face to face is always ideal if possible.

5. Character The last and most important trait that ALL leaders must possess is character. Do a quick leadership analysis of yourself.

• Do I have to get the glory?
• Am I the same person everywhere I go?
• Are there certain things I do that are compromising my character?
• What are my motives as I strive to become the leader God made me to be?
• Do I say one thing and then do another?

If you find yourself in any position of leadership remember to always serve those you are leading. Leadership can be learned and each of us must strive to become more effective in the leadership role that God has placed us in.