If you study leadership in general, there has been a progression of leadership types, from trait, behavioral, theory, situational, transactional and then transformational. Transformational leadership is one of the more recent developments in the evolution of leadership, and has an high moral element to it. This is mainly due to the requirement of authentic transformational leaders to be genuine and not susceptible to corruption. It is easy for someone who has not developed themselves to a high enough moral level to be corrupted by the power and influence that this type of leadership can bring.
Here are some of the behaviors that a transformational leader might exhibit. If you are an aspiring transformational leader, see how many of the below you can identify with:
- I always disclose fully all relevant information and new developments even when it's bad news
- I always keep the 'big picture' in mind in my decision-making process
- I always maintain confidences shared with me
- I am always open and up-front about problems that arise
- I am extremely reliable and do whatever it takes to deliver on my promises
- I clearly communicate my values and ideals to others and engage their support of them
- I clearly explain the rationale for decisions I have made to the people affected by the decisions
- I consistently communicate the criteria upon which decisions will be made
- I consistently encourage others to go beyond their self-interests in pursuit of the greater good
- I consistently strive to develop the latent talents of and mentor the people I lead
- I demonstrate and expect innovation and a bias for action
- I express a genuine interest in people on a regular basis
- I have an inspirational vision that I frequently communicate to others to gain their alignment
- I have high moral and ethical values and model them through my behavior
- I mobilize others through a collective sense of mission
- I often share my feelings about issues and situations
- I regularly challenge the status quo
- I set aside my personal interests in pursuit of the end goal
- I set high performance standards because I know that challenging attainable goals lead to higher performance
- I speak optimistically about the future and the opportunities it provides
- I speak to the commonly held values and aspirations I have with others
- I use my ability to connect with people to have them believe that there is more value to work than gaining immediate rewards
- Many people tell me I am a role model for them
- My values consistently drive my decision-making process
- People tell me they are proud to be associated with me
The above may seem like a tall order, and in a world where uncertainty and change is ever increasing, by using these behaviors we have the potential to inspire others to become transformational leaders themselves. It is a lifelong journey, and a commitment to personal and proffessional development.
Are you up for it?
Perhaps the most fundamental characteristic of leadership, and therefore of transformational leaders, is personal leadership. The ability to define what you want out of life and how you are going to get there is the first step in developing leadership. With that being the starting point, it all seems pretty local, however there are other parts to the experience that are not always easy to access.
As a transformational leader there are many uncertainties to navigate. There will be times when you are shaken to your core, and put in positions that you would not likely have chosen to be in, had you the choice. Nevertheless, there you are, in the situation, and the person that can help you out right now, is You. You are the one that will make a choice as to what you will do next.
Knowing about your BEING as much as your DOING will assist you in finding your own guidance on the matter. Any experienced leader will tell you that it is a mixture of head and heart that will guide you to your destination. Personal transformational leadership is about more than doing. It is about being the master of your internal and external realities.
Here are some steps that can guide you on your path:
1.Know who you are This is critical. If you are able to define who you are, and never lose sight of that, you have a solid standpoint to come from. There will be forces that seek to pull or push you off your path, and you may be taken off track more than once. If you can know who you are, you can return to that, time and time again. When all else around you makes no sense, you can trust yourself.
2.Be prepared to change Life is change. Change is all around us. What we see in front of us, may not always be what is real. Our minds can trick us into believing all kinds of lies about ourselves, others and the world around us. If you are willing to shift your perspective, and be flexible, your Transformational Leadership journey will be easier to walk.
3.Do what it takes - lead by example When you are willing to do what it takes to change for the better, or to weather adverse situations, others are more likey to respect that. If you are asking others to change, they will most likely check your integrity before they fully commit to the vision, mission or goal. They want to be able to trust you, and you are willing to lead by example, you increase the chances of that happening.
4.Be Authentic (Yourself) In a nutshell, it is about being authentic. The real you, as you are. Be honest and be human. We are all in this together. If you are trying to be someone else, or wear a mask to influence or manipulate others to follow, they will eventually see through it. Besides, it takes a huge amount of energy to keep that facade up, doesn't it?. Being yourself, you can relax, and focus on the most important issues, rather than being stressed out and anxious about how others are going to see you.
As a transformational leader, you can activate your personal transformational leadership by being aware of yourself. Be willing to change the parts of you that no longer serve you or those around you. Then you will be respected for who you are, not just for what you do.
Richard Cox has sinced written about articles on various topics from Web Development, Leadership and Health. Richard Cox's passion is about exploring where business and spirituality meet. is dedicated to unlocking your tran. Richard Cox's top article generates over 5400 views. to your Favourites.