Leadership
creates moments not defined by policy or procedures—situations where leaders
have to choose between right and right.

Every day, you
make character decisions, consciously or unconsciously, such as between speed
or quality and long-term or short-term results. The impact of these decisions
either reinforces your team’s desired or undesired thoughts, feelings, and
behaviors.

Leadership
character is shown to align the leader-follower relationship, increasing both
leader and follower productivity, effectiveness, and creativity. Leadership
character plays a vital role in unifying a team.

Followers will
give more when they respect the leader’s character. A focus on helping others
is essential to providing effective strategic leadership. Also, character helps
leaders navigate change more effectively.

Leadership
character is doing the right thing for the right reasons and with the right
feelings. It is the inner game of leadership. While leadership behaviors are
observable, a leader’s inner game quietly controls the leader’s behaviors.

Evidence
suggests that there are four universal leadership character principles:

Integrity –
Being honest, acting consistently with principles, standing up for what is
right, and keeping promises.

Responsibility
– Owning personal decisions, admitting mistakes, and showing concern for the
common good.

Forgiveness –
Letting go of self and others’ mistakes, focused on what is right versus only
what is wrong.

Compassion –
Empathizing with others, empowering others, actively caring for others, and
committing to others’ growth.

A leader’s
character determines how knowledge, skills, and abilities are applied.
Leadership decisions are often based on values, worldviews, and past
experiences. Your past, even as a child, has shaped your current perception of
what is right or wrong. Family members, friends, religious leaders, and the
community where you live and work reinforce your character.

Great
leadership is a combination of competence, character, and commitment.