Problem
People do not trust leaders whose actions are inconsistent.
Action
Make decisions that align with your principles in every situation.
Outcome
Others gain confidence in your leadership.
Chapter: Character: Be a Piece of the Rock
Problem
Poor first impressions weaken influence.
Action
Show genuine interest and respect when meeting people.
Outcome
People become more open to connecting with you.
Chapter: Charisma: The First Impression Can Seal the Deal
Problem
Many worthwhile goals fail because effort ends too soon.
Action
Continue working through obstacles until the task is complete.
Outcome
More important objectives are accomplished.
Chapter: Commitment: It Separates Doers from Dreamers
Problem
People cannot act effectively when they are confused.
Action
Express ideas and expectations in direct language.
Outcome
People understand what to do.
Chapter: Communication: Without It You Travel Alone
Problem
Weak performance reduces leadership credibility.
Action
Develop the skills needed to perform your responsibilities well.
Outcome
Others trust your ability to deliver results.
Chapter: Competence: If You Build It, They Will Come
Problem
Fear can prevent necessary action.
Action
Move forward when the right decision requires risk.
Outcome
Important progress continues.
Chapter: Courage: One Person with Courage Is a Majority
Problem
Important facts are often missed by quick judgments.
Action
Examine causes and patterns before making decisions.
Outcome
You make wiser choices.
Chapter: Discernment: Put an End to Unsolved Mysteries
Problem
Too many priorities divide attention and effort.
Action
Focus most of your time on the work that matters most.
Outcome
Your effort creates greater results.
Chapter: Focus: The Sharper It Is, the Sharper You Are
Problem
Teams become limited when people are not growing.
Action
Share knowledge, support, and opportunities with others.
Outcome
More people become capable contributors.
Chapter: Generosity: Your Candle Loses Nothing When It Lights Another
Problem
Opportunities are lost when people wait for direction.
Action
Take the first useful step when you see a need.
Outcome
Progress begins sooner.
Chapter: Initiative: You Won’t Leave Home Without It
Problem
People feel disconnected when they are not heard.
Action
Give full attention before responding.
Outcome
Understanding and trust increase.
Chapter: Listening: To Connect with Their Hearts, Use Your Ears
Problem
Low energy reduces influence on others.
Action
Show genuine excitement for worthwhile goals.
Outcome
People become more engaged.
Chapter: Passion: Take This Life and Love It
Problem
Negative thinking limits action and persistence.
Action
Look for constructive options during challenges.
Outcome
You remain productive during setbacks.
Chapter: Positive Attitude: If You Believe You Can, You Can
Problem
Ignored problems usually become harder to solve.
Action
Confront issues early and work toward solutions.
Outcome
Challenges are resolved more effectively.
Chapter: Problem Solving: You Can’t Let Your Problems Be a Problem
Problem
People resist leaders they do not trust personally.
Action
Spend time building strong connections with others.
Outcome
People cooperate more willingly.
Chapter: Relationships: If You Get Along, They’ll Go Along
Problem
Avoiding accountability weakens leadership.
Action
Accept responsibility for your duties and results.
Outcome
Others see you as dependable.
Chapter: Responsibility: If You Won’t Carry the Ball, You Can’t Lead the Team
Problem
Insecurity creates defensive behavior.
Action
Value your own worth while appreciating the strengths of others.
Outcome
Collaboration becomes easier.
Chapter: Security: Competence Never Compensates for Insecurity
Problem
Inconsistent habits lead to inconsistent performance.
Action
Follow productive routines regardless of how you feel.
Outcome
Your effectiveness becomes more consistent.
Chapter: Self-Discipline: The First Person You Lead Is You
Problem
Self-centered leadership reduces trust.
Action
Use your position to help others succeed.
Outcome
People feel valued and supported.
Chapter: Servanthood: To Get Ahead, Put Others First
Problem
Growth stops when leaders stop learning.
Action
Seek lessons from others and from your own results.
Outcome
Your leadership continues to improve.
Chapter: Teachability: To Keep Leading, Keep Learning
Problem
People lose direction when the destination is unclear.
Action
Create and communicate a clear vision of what should be achieved.
Outcome
Efforts align toward a common goal.
Chapter: Vision: You Can Seize Only What You Can See