
What does it take to be a heart-centered leader? If the following 21 traits sound familiar, you may be well on your way to a form of leadership driven by the principles of authenticity and integrity rather than the pursuit of profit at any and all cost.
You Might be a Heart-Centered Leader if…
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You tell the truth.
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You trust your associates to do the right thing.
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You are able to relinquish control. As leaders, we don’t really have it anyway. Our associates do. If you think that’s not true, try getting anything done without them.
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You know your impact and are mindful of how your words and actions may be interpreted in formal and informal ways.
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You aim to serve the people that you are leading, not the other way around.
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You are open-minded and do not judge or assume, but come to understand a situation or behavior.
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You take care of your “whole-self” — physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually.
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You have the willingness to look in the mirror and come to terms with your own character flaws.
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You are committed to personal and professional growth.
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You strive to mentor others and surround yourself with people that have skills, talents and styles different from your own.
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You are empathetic and strive to maintain the self-esteem of others.
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You have an “open-door” policy.
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You believe that, given the right support, people rise to the occasion on their own and actually feel good about being held accountable.
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You develop strategies that involve, promote, call upon, and inspire associates to participate fully in creating, renewing, or revitalizing the organization.
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You have compassion for yourself and others.
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You replace blame with responsibility.
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You believe that people have positive intentions, even if associates’ behavior appears to illustrate the opposite.
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You are committed to making a difference not only in your own life, but in the lives of your associates and society as a whole.
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You listen before speaking.
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You create an environment where feedback is expected and appreciated.
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You are not afraid to admit your mistakes.