True leaders are rare and unique, but true leaders aren’t always “natural born” leaders. They can be taught to see a moment and seize it or be smart, add their skills to a situation, and lead that way. Anyone can be a leader.
There’s the moment in the action movie when the bad guys burst in, and someone yells, “Who’s in charge here?” Then, a lackey, a low man on the pole, looks around to see that their “leader,” the one who is supposed to take care of them and keep them out of harm's way, has run off, nowhere ot be found. The lackey swallows hard, steels himself, and steps forward. “I’m in charge,” he says, mustering his best hero voice. He’s immediately shot and killed, and the head bad guy says, “Anyone else want to be a hero?”
Anyone want to be a hero? That sounds like a really good job offer. A parade, beautiful women screaming “my hero” and tossing themselves at you. Prizes and recognition, hey, who wouldn’t want to be a leader, a hero?
The reality is that most people don’t want to be heroes; they want to do their gig, live their lives, harm no one, and live. Being a hero often comes with sacrifice and maybe even pain or death. Heroes are natural-born leaders who sometimes don’t know or even want to be leaders, but time and circumstances have anointed them, and the true leaders step up.
True leaders are rare and unique, but true leaders aren’t always “natural born” leaders. They can be taught to see a moment and seize it or be smart, add their skills to a situation, and lead that way. Anyone can be a leader.
These are challenging times. The world is changing rapidly; economic uncertainty is ever-present, industries are shifting, and workplaces are evolving. Strong leadership is not just a luxury for businesses and agencies—it’s a necessity. But what does it mean to be a leader in today’s world? What are the qualities that separate effective leaders from those who merely hold titles? More importantly, how can anyone, regardless of their role, step up and lead when times get tough?
The Essential Qualities of a Strong Leader
True leadership isn’t about titles, power, or prestige. It’s about guiding others with clarity, resilience, and vision. Here are the core qualities that define strong leadership in any business or organization:
1. Vision
A true leader sees beyond the immediate obstacles and focuses on long-term goals. They provide direction and inspire their teams to push forward even when the path is uncertain. As former Apple CEO Steve Jobs once said, “Innovation distinguishes between a leader and a follower.” Leaders anticipate change and shape the future rather than reacting to it.
2. Adaptability
The ability to pivot when circumstances demand it is critical in uncertain times. The most successful leaders embrace change rather than resist it. They stay informed, adjust their strategies, and empower their teams to be flexible. A great example is Netflix CEO Reed Hastings, who transformed his company from a DVD rental service into a global streaming giant by recognizing and adapting to shifts in consumer behavior.
3. Communication
Clear and transparent communication is essential. Great leaders articulate their vision, set expectations, and listen actively to their teams. They foster an environment where feedback flows freely and ensure that employees understand not only what needs to be done but also why it matters. As leadership expert Simon Sinek puts it, “Leadership is not about being in charge. It is about taking care of those in your charge.”
4. Emotional Intelligence
A leader’s ability to understand and manage emotions—both their own and those of their team—can make or break an organization. Leaders with high emotional intelligence (EQ) demonstrate empathy, handle conflict effectively, and build strong relationships. Empathetic leadership leads to higher employee engagement and better decision-making.
5. Accountability
Great leaders take responsibility for their actions and decisions. They don’t shift blame or make excuses. Instead, they own their mistakes, learn from them, and use them as opportunities for growth. Former PepsiCo CEO Indra Nooyi emphasized this when she said, “Leadership is hard to define, and good leadership even harder. But if you can get people to follow you to the ends of the earth, you are a great leader.”
Leading Through Crisis
Tough times reveal true leaders. During crises, whether financial downturns, global pandemics, or internal organizational struggles, great leaders rise to the occasion. How do they do it?
1. Staying Calm Under Pressure
Panic breeds panic, while composure instills confidence. Effective leaders remain level-headed and reassure their teams, providing stability in uncertain times. This means controlling emotions, assessing situations with a clear mind, and making decisions that inspire confidence. Strong leaders project assurance even when facing uncertainty, knowing that their demeanor influences the morale of the entire team.
2. Making Tough Decisions
In times of crisis, leaders often face difficult choices. The best leaders make decisions based on data, ethics, and long-term impact, rather than short-term gains. They gather information, consult key stakeholders, and assess risks before taking action. While some decisions may be unpopular, great leaders prioritize the best interests of the organization and its people, ensuring sustainability and resilience. They also take ownership of their decisions, demonstrating accountability and a willingness to adjust course if necessary.
3. Prioritizing People
Organizations thrive when their people feel valued. Great leaders prioritize the well-being of their employees, offering support, flexibility, and encouragement. This includes fostering a workplace culture of trust, ensuring open communication, and being transparent about challenges. Leaders who care for their people during tough times build loyalty and stronger teams, ensuring long-term success. They implement employee well-being initiatives, provide mental health resources, and make empathetic decisions that reinforce a culture of care.
4. Taking Action
A crisis demands action. Leaders who step up, communicate effectively, and make bold yet thoughtful moves inspire trust and loyalty. They don’t wait for the perfect plan—they take decisive steps, adjust when needed, and keep moving forward. Procrastination and hesitation can cause uncertainty and disengagement within teams. Effective leaders provide clear direction, allocate resources efficiently, and ensure that their teams stay focused on what matters most. They also take responsibility for outcomes, learning from failures and building on successes to navigate future crises even more effectively.
The Difference Between Managers and Leaders
Many people in leadership positions are merely managers—not true leaders. While both roles are important, the way they approach their responsibilities differs significantly:
- Managers oversee tasks; Leaders inspire vision. Managers ensure that day-to-day operations run smoothly, while leaders look ahead, setting a course for the future and inspiring others to follow.
- Managers focus on efficiency; Leaders focus on innovation. Managers optimize current processes, whereas leaders seek new ways to grow and improve, challenging the status quo.
- Managers control; Leaders empower. Managers delegate tasks and enforce policies, but true leaders trust their teams, providing guidance while allowing individuals to take ownership of their work.
- Managers maintain order; Leaders drive change. Managers ensure stability, but leaders recognize that change is necessary for growth and are not afraid to disrupt conventional thinking.
Leaders go beyond just managing workflows—they create cultures of trust, collaboration, and progress. They influence others through their actions, inspire loyalty, and motivate their teams to push past limitations.
A title alone does not make someone a leader. Leadership is earned through actions, trust, and influence. A great leader fosters a vision that unites and drives an organization forward, while a manager primarily ensures that existing operations remain intact. To truly lead, one must inspire others, foster creativity, and be willing to take risks that drive meaningful progress.
How Anyone Can Be a Leader
You don’t have to be a CEO to be a leader. Leadership can happen at any level of an organization. Here’s how anyone can step up and lead:
1. Lead by Example
True leaders demonstrate the values they expect from others. Whether it’s showing integrity, diligence, or accountability, people naturally follow those who embody these traits consistently. Leading by example fosters credibility and trust, making leadership more about influence than authority.
2. Be a Problem-Solver
Leaders don’t just identify problems—they take initiative to solve them. Whether it’s streamlining a process, addressing a team conflict, or introducing a new idea, those who actively seek solutions demonstrate leadership. Even in entry-level roles, employees who bring forward actionable solutions set themselves apart.
3. Support and Motivate Others
Leadership is about more than personal achievement; it’s about elevating those around you. Leaders recognize the strengths of their colleagues, provide encouragement, and create an environment where people feel valued. Recognizing team contributions and offering mentorship fosters a culture of collaboration and growth.
4. Keep Learning
Great leaders understand that growth never stops. They actively seek new knowledge through books, training, networking, and mentorship. Staying informed about industry trends, improving soft skills, and being open to feedback ensures continuous development. As Warren Buffett once said, “The best investment you can make is in yourself.”
5. Take Initiative
Leaders don’t wait for opportunities—they create them. Whether it’s volunteering for a new project, stepping up when a colleague needs help, or voicing new ideas in meetings, those who take initiative gain respect and influence. Leadership is about action, and those who embrace it will naturally inspire others to follow.
Real-World Examples of Leadership in Tough Times (H2)
Howard Schultz (Starbucks)
Howard Schultz returned to Starbucks during a period of financial struggle and declining brand loyalty. By refocusing on company culture and customer experience, he revitalized the brand. Schultz emphasized ethical sourcing, employee benefits, and customer engagement, reinforcing Starbucks’ commitment to quality and sustainability. His leadership transformed Starbucks into a global powerhouse, proving that prioritizing people and values leads to business success.
Mary Barra (General Motors)
Mary Barra took the reins at General Motors during a turbulent time, with the company facing recalls and reputational damage. She prioritized transparency, innovation, and accountability, implementing sweeping cultural and operational reforms. By embracing electric vehicle technology and sustainability, she positioned GM for long-term success. Her leadership showcases the power of resilience, adaptability, and a forward-thinking mindset in overcoming crises.
Satya Nadella (Microsoft)
When Satya Nadella became CEO of Microsoft, the company was losing its competitive edge. Through a strong focus on collaboration, innovation, and a growth mindset, he transformed Microsoft into a cloud-first, AI-driven enterprise. Nadella fostered a more inclusive and dynamic company culture, encouraging experimentation and learning. His leadership redefined Microsoft’s role in the tech industry, proving that a shift in mindset can reignite a company’s success.
These leaders exemplify the qualities of true leadership—vision, adaptability, accountability, and the ability to inspire others in the face of adversity. Their success stories demonstrate that great leadership is about more than just strategy; it’s about creating a culture of trust, empowerment, and long-term innovation.
Summing Up
Leadership is not about power—it’s about responsibility, influence, and the ability to inspire and guide others. True leaders cultivate environments where people feel valued, supported, and empowered to do their best work. They don’t just manage tasks; they create cultures of trust, collaboration, and innovation.
Great leadership is not limited to executives or those with official titles. It happens at every level of an organization. A frontline employee who motivates their coworkers, a mid-level manager who fosters team morale, or an entrepreneur who drives a vision forward—all of them embody leadership.
The best leaders also understand that leadership is an evolving journey, not a final destination. They continuously learn, adapt, and improve. They embrace change, encourage growth in others, and understand that their influence extends far beyond their immediate role. Leadership is measured not by personal success but by the impact left on teams, organizations, and the broader community.
And remember—true leadership is not about where you stand on the organizational chart. It’s about how you uplift and inspire those around you. In times of uncertainty, the real leaders step forward, not because they have to, but because they choose to. Leadership is about making a difference, and anyone—regardless of their title—can rise to the occasion and lead.
