Lachlan Brown
I’ve been fascinated by leadership ever since I started reading about human potential in my early twenties.
And over the years, through my own research and conversations with readers of Hack Spirit and Small Business Bonfire, I’ve noticed certain traits keep coming up.
These are the telltale signs of a natural leader, backed by psychological concepts and studies.
Let’s get into it.
1. You Own Your Mistakes (and Learn From Them)
Leaders don’t hide from their slip-ups. They face them head-on. According to Dr. Carol Dweck, the Stanford psychologist famous for her work on “growth mindset,” people who see mistakes as learning opportunities tend to excel in leadership positions.
When I launched my first website, I made all sorts of rookie errors—trust me, the cringe is real. But instead of trying to bury them, I used them as stepping stones to grow. It’s exactly what a leader does: they take responsibility and then move forward, better than before.
2. You Have a Knack for Bringing People Together
Do people naturally gather around you to chat, brainstorm, or even vent? If your house or office desk feels like the local watering hole, you probably have a leadership aura.
Carl Jung, the Swiss psychiatrist who pioneered analytical psychology, believed that certain personalities have an innate ability to create harmony in groups.
I once threw a last-minute barbecue for friends—and, somehow, word spread until half the neighborhood showed up with food and drinks. It was chaotic and wonderful, and it reminded me how real leadership is often about uniting people around a common cause—or burger grill.
3. You Listen More Than You Speak
One of the biggest misconceptions is that leaders talk all the time. Actually, great leaders are expert listeners. Stephen R. Covey, author of The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, famously said, “Most people do not listen with the intent to understand; they listen with the intent to reply.”
If you tend to focus on what others are saying, ask follow-up questions, and make them feel heard, you’re showcasing true leadership skill.
When I first started Hack Spirit, I spent hours in the comments section reading what people were struggling with. Those late-night Q&A sessions taught me more about leadership than any course ever could.
4. You Stay Calm in Crisis Mode
When the pressure is on—maybe a big project is behind schedule or the budget got unexpectedly slashed—are you the one who stays level-headed?
Daniel Goleman, the psychologist who popularized emotional intelligence (EQ), pointed out that managing your own emotions in tough situations is a core element of effective leadership.
I recall a time when our website traffic dropped overnight (thanks, random algorithm update!). It was stressful, but by keeping my cool and focusing on solutions rather than freaking out, the team felt more secure. And guess what? We bounced back stronger than ever.
5. You Inspire People to Aim Higher
It’s not just about big pep talks, though those can help. Real inspiration often comes through consistent encouragement, setting a good example, and giving people room to grow.
John Maxwell, a renowned leadership author, wrote: “Leaders become great, not because of their power, but because of their ability to empower others.”
From interns at Small Business Bonfire to my closest friends and family, I’ve learned that the best way to inspire someone is to show genuine belief in their capabilities—and offer a hand where needed. Seeing others hit their stride because of your support is a deeply satisfying feeling.
6. You Embrace Vulnerability
Here’s a twist: being vulnerable isn’t a weakness—it’s a superpower. Leaders who aren’t afraid to show their human side build deeper, more authentic connections with their teams.
Brené Brown nails it when she says, “Vulnerability is the birthplace of innovation, creativity, and change.”
I’ve found that admitting when I’m unsure or when I need help has sparked some of the most creative solutions.
When I once confessed during a product launch meeting that I didn’t have all the answers, it turned a potential disaster into a brainstorming bonanza.
Don’t be afraid to let your guard down—your team will thank you for it.
7. You’re Driven by a Clear Sense of Purpose
A born leader isn’t just winging it—they have a vision. Whether it’s revolutionizing an industry or simply making life a bit better for those around you, having a clear purpose fuels your journey. Viktor Frankl once said, “Those who have a ‘why’ to live can bear almost any ‘how.’”
For me, the reason behind Hack Spirit and Small Business Bonfire has always been about igniting that inner spark in others. Knowing why you do what you do isn’t just motivational fluff—it’s a psychological anchor that guides you through both smooth sailing and stormy weather.
Final Thoughts
If you see yourself in these signs—even just a couple—congratulations: you’re likely a natural-born leader. But remember, leadership isn’t a finish line; it’s more of a lifelong experiment. Whether you’re leading a global company or just your local community group, these traits can guide you in becoming the best leader you can be.
So own your mistakes, keep the peace, truly listen, stay calm, and encourage those around you to reach for the stars. Over the years, I’ve seen how these qualities can not only change businesses, but change lives—starting with your own.
Now go out there and lead the way. We’re all rooting for you.
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