The "IF 16"
Leadership Attributes
Number 14: Inspiration – Motivating Both Foes and Friends
“If neither foes nor loving friends can hurt you,
If all men count with you, but none too much:”
How do people choose whom to follow? Often it is a function of a leader’s ability to project attributes that others wished they possessed. Sometimes it is just a leader’s ability to empathize and connect with others. Mother Teresa led by projecting her commitment to humanity and to easing suffering. She embraced her humanity and lived according to her values, regardless of what others thought. She rallied the world to her cause, and she remained connected even with friends and foes with whom she disagreed.
The ability to inspire others requires:
1. Having the courage to do what is right
2. Being open to criticism
3. Understanding the problem before trying to solve it
4. Building support by changing others’ world views.
