In spite of the best possible plans, leaders are often faced with outcomes they couldn’t have predicted and do not desire. At those moments, they embrace flexibility and adaptability. Disappointments and setbacks are inevitable. A leader knows a bend in the road is never the end of the road unless you fail to navigate the curve. ─ Deb Miller ─ Ken Chapman & Associates, Inc

By: Ken Chapman, Ph.D. Ken Chapman & Associates, Inc. What gives a man or woman the right to lead? Certainly, being elected or appointed or having a position, rank, or title does not qualify anyone to lead other people. And the ability does not come automatically from age or experience either. It is far more accurate to say that no one can be given the right to lead. The right to lead can only be earned and that takes time and effort. The key to becoming an effective leader is not to focus on making other people follow, but on making yourself the kind of person they want to follow. As you prepare yourself to become a more effective leader, consider the following guidelines: 1. Let go of your ego. The truly great leaders are not in leadership for personal gain. They lead in order to serve other people. Perhaps…

High quality crystal produces a clear ringing sound when struck—hence the phrase “crystal clear.” Leaders aspire to a similar clarity in communicating. Leaders understand the clear correlation between “clarity” and “accountability.” The correlation is built on crystal clear communication. ─ Ken Chapman, Ph.D.

When faced with life’s disappointments, you have two choices. You can be bitter or you can get better. Leaders know time wasted thinking about what might have been is a losing game. Instead, they invest their energy in a better tomorrow. – Deb Miller

Leaders choose their attitude. Leaders have an intrinsic understanding that while we cannot always choose what happens, we can choose our response. Leaders know to remain positive in the face of adversity and disappointment signals a refusal to accept defeat. Such optimism strengthens and renews the efforts of the entire team. ─Deb Miller, Ken Chapman & Associates, Inc.

Leaders know and live trust: Do what is right. Deliver what is promised. Be the same person, whatever the circumstances. Be Accountable. Leaders build trust by being trust. ─ Ken Chapman ─ Ken Chapman & Associates, Inc.

W.C. Fields said, “The best cure for insomnia is to get a lot of sleep.” Leaders know Fields was stating more than the obvious. Fields was affirming a great truth: The most responsible thing a tired person can do is rest. ─ Ken Chapman ─ Ken Chapman & Associates, Inc.

Hearing of his reported death, Mark Twain famously commented: Rumors of my demise are greatly exaggerated. Leaders know that “Saying it’s so, doesn’t make it so!” An opinion can be as unqualified as a rumor. And, an opinion can carry the gravitas of knowledge, experience and wisdom. Leaders know the difference. ─ Ken Chapman, Ph.D.

Leaders know: Courageous people are neither cowardly (shunning all dangers) nor foolhardy (embracing all dangers). Courageous people are thinking people. -Aristotle

Listening is one of the least used strategies for building trust and motivating team members. Listening is caring and team members appreciate an empathetic hearing even when the circumstances can’t be changed. Leaders know the value of listening. ─ Deb Miller ─ Ken Chapman & Associates, Inc