Four Important Leadership Characteristics

When I think about leadership. I think about lots of things.

I think about initiative. Leaders must lead by taking action. They must see things that need to be done and then make them happen.

I think about caring. The best leaders care about those around them. And they don't just talk about how much they care, they show it.

I think about being willing to do the hard thing, the unpopular thing, and the right thing. Sometimes these are all one and the same, other times not. But leaders do all of them.

I think about being influential. Leadership can't exist without influence. And leaders can influence in countless ways (whether influencing what they want or not!).

I was challenged to think more carefully about all four of those attributes after reading about the Roncalli High School (Indianapolis, IN) Junior Varsity softball team.

Yes, JV softball.

I could tell you the story, but you will benefit more by reading it yourself.

Prepare to be inspired.

And prepare to think about what you would have done in their situation, what you would have thought if you were watching, and most importantly, what leadership lessons you can take from them and apply to your work immediately.  (I've given you four lessons, and there are many more.)

After you read the story, come back and share your lessons in the comments.