What makes inspirational people

These are real moments of leadership and truth. A few of our favorite, classic examples include:. While these are only single actions by leaders who are famous for producing both performance and inspiration, they provide a window into what inspirational leadership looks like. Leaders can only change by doing things differently. The more often they behave in a new way, the sooner they become a new type of leader, an inspirational leader.

We know that individual inspiration is the gateway to employee discretionary energy, and that, in turn, is critical to making the most of your scarcest resource — your human capital. You have 1 free article s left this month. You are reading your last free article for this month.

Subscribe for unlimited access. Create an account to read 2 more. How to Be an Inspiring Leader. Inspirational people really pay attention to what we say to them and respond appropriately, asking questions, offering suggestions, and furthering the conversation. The never just let things go in one ear and out the other. They want your feedback and encourage you to contribute to the common goal.

This creates a shared sense of value because when everyone participates, everyone is important. They foster equality. The people who inspire us the most are not full of hate, bigotry, or racism. They strive for equality. They use caring, accepting language, and are inclusive rather than divisive. Understanding, compassion, acceptance, and appreciation are at the heart of who they are and what they stand for.

Taking risks is an essential part of leadership. Rosa Parks, Henry Ford and Elon Musk are a few leaders who have made a difference in this world by taking a courageous risk without the guarantee of it being successful.

This is a BETA experience. You may opt-out by clicking here. More From Forbes. Nov 11, , pm EST. Nov 11, , am EST. Nov 10, , pm EST. Edit Story. Feb 29, , pm EST. Why U. Follow me on Twitter or LinkedIn. Trying to inspire others without feeling genuine passion for an issue yourself is possible, but far harder.

If, however, you first identify your area of passion, and then proceed to lead others in that domain, becoming an inspirational leader will happen almost automatically. Your own passion, if strong enough, will galvanise passion in others, and this is where inspiration will blossom. Without this, people will not be able to trust what you say is true, and trust is another key component of inspiring others.

This means taking the time to listen to the views of others, spend time to understand their concerns, and engaging with them on a personal level. The most inspirational people tend to be the ones we connect with on a personal level; sharing similar values and passions with those you lead is essential, but if you then combine this with an unpleasant approach to interacting with others, this will weaken your influence considerably.

Developing a strong rapport with others, alongside viewing and treating them as important and valuable human beings, is hugely important in becoming an inspiring leader.

Highly successful inspirational leaders are not only conscious of what their followers value, but are dedicated to developing their own self-awareness.