When people talk about leadership, it often comes with images of powerful titles, big decisions, and commanding boardrooms. But to me, great leadership traits aren’t about titles or prestige – it’s about who you are on the inside and how you help others rise.
While writing the first draft of my book, I’ve been reflecting on the many leaders I’ve worked with, worked for, and grown alongside. And through that process, I uncovered some powerful insights that I believe are essential for good leadership.
These leadership traits aren’t about being the loudest voice in the room or having all the answers. They’re about integrity, vision, resilience, and heart. Whether you’re a CEO, a teacher, a student, or just someone who cares deeply about helping others, these traits apply to you.
9 Leadership Traits That Make a Good Leader
1. They Have a God-Sized Vision
Great leaders dream big – not just for themselves, but for everyone around them. Their vision is so expansive that it creates space for others to bring their dreams to life too.
I’ve seen this firsthand in an executive chef I work with. His passion for culinary artistry and his humility create a culture where everyone – from line cooks to dishwashers – feels part of something greater. He doesn’t tell people to get on board. He lives and breathes his vision, and others are naturally inspired to follow.
2. They’re Willing to Fight the Battles
Strong leaders don’t shy away from struggle. They understand that growth comes from getting in the ring, even when it’s messy and hard. Whether it’s launching a new product that flops or pushing through internal doubt while writing a book, they stay committed. They keep promises to themselves and push forward, knowing each failure brings them one step closer to success.
3. They Lead with Emotional Humility
Good leaders own their mistakes. They don’t pretend to be perfect or punish others for being human. Instead, they ask, “What can we learn from this?” They see imperfections as opportunities for growth – in themselves and in their team. Emotional humility creates safety, trust, and room to grow.
4. They Embrace the Open Road and Are Willing to Go Alone
Trailblazing isn’t easy. Great leaders are willing to walk the road less traveled to build something meaningful – even if others don’t understand it. They stay true to themselves and their vision, trusting that the right people will come along for the journey. And when they do, those shared miles become magical.
5. They’re Willing to Be Vulnerable
Being a leader doesn’t mean you have it all figured out. In fact, vulnerability is a superpower. Great leaders ask themselves tough questions. They admit when they’re stuck. They reach out for help. Vulnerability allows them to grow – and invites others to do the same.
6. They Move with Intention
Every action a great leader takes is rooted in purpose. Whether it’s launching a new initiative, restructuring a team, or rewriting a chapter of a book, they ask: Why am I doing this? That deep sense of intention guides their choices and ensures that growth and service are always at the center.
7. They Build from the Inside Out
Real leadership isn’t about status – it’s about substance. The best leaders develop their internal gifts: empathy, strategy, creativity, the ability to listen, the courage to hold space for others. They focus less on external validation and more on aligning with their core values and purpose.
8. They Know Conflict Is Part of the Journey
Every leader faces challenges – self-doubt, competition, failures, criticism. The difference is, strong leaders don’t avoid conflict. They recognize it as part of the path to greatness and move through it with grace and resilience.
9. They Help Others Rise
At the heart of leadership is one simple truth: It’s not about you. It’s about helping others become the best version of themselves. Great leaders hold space, lift others up, and believe in their potential – even before they believe in it themselves.
H2: Which Leadership Trait Will You Integrate?
If one of these leadership traits spoke to you, hold onto it. Integrate it. Practice it. And remember: leadership doesn’t require a title. It starts with who you are – how you show up, how you lead yourself, and how you love and support others.
Let’s redefine what it means to lead. Not with ego or authority, but with vision, humility, and heart.
Resources Mentioned
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