Napoleon Hill, author of “Think and Grow Rich” states, “It is no disgrace to be a follower. On the other hand, it is no credit to remain a follower. Most great leaders began in the capacity of followers”. In this article we will be discussing leaders and reviewing the major attributes of leadership.

Leaders may indeed be born as such; however, many more began as “intelligent followers” to use Mr. Hill’s terminology. A person of this type is more likely to develop into a leader themselves.

The experience gained by an intelligent follower from a knowledgeable leader is priceless.

What are the major attributes of a leader?

• Unwavering courage based upon their confidence in themselves and their occupation.
• Self-control which enables them to set the example that their intelligent followers will emulate.
• Justice in their judgments and the ability to be fair-minded.
• Definiteness of decision based on their self-assurance.
• Definiteness of plans to ensure that they and their followers stay on course.
• Willingness to do more than they ask of their followers regardless of compensation.
• Personality that naturally commands the respect of their followers.
• Sympathy and understanding when their followers encounter problems.
• Attentiveness to details.
• Willingness to assume responsibility for mistakes stemming from their follower’s incompetence.
• Spirit of cooperation with their followers resulting in a cooperative effort by all.

Napoleon Hill categorized leadership as either by consent, or by force. As the two categories indicate, followers would either follow with or without their personal consent and sympathy.

It was his opinion, and most will undoubtedly agree, that leading with the consent and sympathy of the followers is preferable for all concerned.

It was also his opinion that leading by force would soon give way to leading by consent. His vision of the future role of leaders was that it would be vastly different, at least as it would pertain to the business world. We have yet to totally realize his vision.

Why should we aspire to be a leader?

In the context of Mr. Hill’s steps toward riches, leadership, as a way of marketing one’s personal services, is one way of compensation for services rendered. If a monetary compensation is not possible, our service would be a way of “paying back” those we owe directly, or indirectly as in “giving back” to a community.

Very few of us get very far on our own. Most of us, at one time or another has had to seek out strong, knowledgeable and effective leaders. We learn to lead by following the leaders.

The world is continually looking for those who are qualified and willing to assume the role.

“This necessity may be your opportunity”, Napoleon Hill, “Think and Grow Rich”

Additional Success Resources