Lead by Example- Live Life by Setting an Example

“When you lead by example, you create a picture of what’s possible. People can look at you and say, “Well, if he can do it, I can do it.” When you lead by example, you make it easy for others to follow you”. Make Sure You “Walk the Walk”

A good leader possesses important characteristic traits that separate him from the followers. Such traits are what define a leader, and are what make them such an influence to others. One trait that makes a leader stand out from the crowd is his ability to lead by example. It is important to not only tell those you lead what to do, but also to be able to show them and interact with them. This characteristic trait is an essential part of being a successful leader.

There’s hardly anything worse for company morale than leaders who practise the “Do as I say, not as I do” philosophy. When this happens, you can almost see the loss of enthusiasm and goodwill among the staff. It’s like watching the air go out of a balloon – and cynicism and disappointment usually take its place.

No matter what the situation is, double standards – witnessing people say one thing, and then doing another – always feel like a betrayal. They can be very destructive. If this ever happened to you, you can probably remember that sense of disappointment and let-down.

If you’re in a leadership position, then you know that you have a responsibility to your team. They look to you for guidance and strength; that’s part of what being a leader is. And a big part of your responsibility is to lead them with your own actions.

There’s an old saying about the difference between a manager and a leader, “Managers do things right. Leaders do the right things.” (It’s best to be both a manager and a leader – they’re just different processes.)

So, why is it so important to lead by example; and what happens when you don’t is a billion dollar question!