There are no universal formulas for becoming an inspirational leader.
That’s why so many of the recipe-style business books fail—the ones that prescribe leadership according to Moses, Shakespeare, Lee Iacocca or Jack Welch.
No one can succeed by copying another leader. The four leadership qualities discussed here, over the last several postings, are essential for inspirational leadership, but they cannot be used mechanically. Indeed, there is a lot left unspecified in each.
It’s up to you to develop your own leadership style. The challenge is to be yourself but with more skill. What’s needed will vary from context to context. It’s up to you to develop and refine your intuition and sensors, find ways to be different, selectively reveal your flaws and empathize while remaining steadfast.
Consider doing the exploratory work with a trusted executive coach or consultant. Leaders who are confident enough to risk being vulnerable and do the work will grow in ways that ultimately benefit their organizations and the people they lead.