Leadership is intangible, and therefore no weapon ever designed can replace it. – Omar N. Bradley


There are a few traits that creative leaders have to remember. Sometimes we just need a little check up to remind us the influence that our leadership carries and the importance of our actions. What would you add to this list (with the obvious Christian focus removed because that is a given)?

1. Leaders set the tone and set it with passion and audacity.
2. Avoid drama and create peace.
3. Think positive, but realistic.
4. Lead by serving.
5. Act as much as they talk.
6. Ensure that their words and actions align; own and correct it when they don’t.
7. Plan.
8. Know they don’t have all the answers all the time.
9. Ask questions more than you make statements.
10. Trust their team to do their jobs.
11. Set and articulate expectations.
12. Insist on results.
13. Delegate. Then, delegate more.
14. Give others credit.
15. Listen. Listen. Listen. Then respond.
16. Have compassion, but don’t be fooled.
17. Respond instead of react.
18. Hire talented, young, future leaders and trust them even when they fail…and never stop investing in them.
19. Know their idea is not always the best idea.
20. Never stop learning.

What are traits you look for in a leader? What traits are you attempting to model?