Brutal, punched-in-the-face honesty.

That’s a stand-up guy, right there. That’s who you want standing next to you when the decision has to be made. But the question really is, can you take the punch? It’ll sting. Probably even leave you black and blue for a few days, but can you take it without lashing back? More importantly, can you act on what you’ve heard?

Attitude reflects leadership.

Whether someone has bestowed upon you the title “Team Lead”, “Manager,” or “Director,” it doesn’t matter. Nobody can give you the authority to be a leader. Managers have authority. Leaders have respect.

If you’re surrounded by poor attitudes, change theirs by changing your own.

Published Friday, June 19, 2009