Ethan Sterling
Ever wondered if you might be a secret leader?
Some folks out there have a knack for leading without even trying. They don’t need to shout or be bossy. They just have this thing about them that makes people want to follow.
You could be one of these people!
Here are 10 signs that you’re a natural born leader. Buckle up and get ready to discover your inner-strength!
1) You give people hope
You have a way of lifting people’s spirits.
You don’t necessarily have to say much, but your positive attitude and outlook are infectious. People around you often find themselves feeling better, more hopeful, just by being in your company.
You know how to turn a negative into a positive and can make even the most ordinary tasks seem exciting and meaningful. This ability to inspire and motivate is a clear sign that you have the makings of a great leader.
2) You don’t fear mistakes
Mistakes? You don’t shy away from them. Instead, you view them as stepping stones towards success.
While others may be stopped in their tracks by the fear of messing up, you boldly move forward, knowing that every error is just another lesson to be learned.
This fearless attitude towards failure is a strong indicator of a natural born leader. You understand that progress trumps perfection and that the journey is just as important as the destination.
3) You understand people’s feelings
I remember once when a friend of mine was going through a tough time. She didn’t have to say a word, but I could sense it. I could see it in her eyes, hear it in her voice, feel it in the air around her. I sat down with her, listened to her worries, and offered my support.
This ability to empathize and connect with people on an emotional level is something I’ve come to realize is a key trait of leadership.
It’s not just about being in charge; but also understanding and caring for the people you’re leading. If you find yourself doing this naturally, then you just might be an undiscovered leader.
4) People ask your advice
Did you know that according to a study by Harvard Business Review, one of the most valued traits of a leader is their ability to provide sound advice? It’s true!
If you find that your friends, family, or coworkers often turn to you for advice or guidance, it’s likely because they trust your judgment and value your perspective.
This trust is not easily earned and speaks volumes about your potential as a natural leader. So, the next time someone seeks your advice, take it as a compliment – it means you’re doing something right!
5) You can make decisions easily
Life is full of tough choices and making decisions isn’t always easy. But when push comes to shove, you’re there, ready to take the reins.
It’s not that you don’t feel the weight of these choices, you do. But you understand that sometimes, you have to follow your heart, trust your gut, and make the call.
This courage to take responsibility and make decisions, even in the face of uncertainty, is the mark of a true leader. It’s a heartfelt commitment to moving forward, no matter what.
6) You enjoy working with others
I’ve always found joy in working with others. Whether it’s a group project at school, a team assignment at work, or even just a game of football in the park, there’s something about the camaraderie, the shared goals, and the collective effort that really appeals to me. I love being part of a team and helping everyone work together.
This trait of mine, I’ve come to realize, is a sign of leadership. Leaders are team players. They know how to bring people together and make them feel like they’re part of something bigger than themselves.
If you also find yourself thriving in team environments, then congratulations – you might just be a natural born leader!
7) You’re good at listening
Let’s be brutally honest here. Listening is hard. It’s so easy to zone out, to interrupt, to start formulating your response before the other person has even finished speaking.
But that’s not you, is it? You really listen. You give people your full attention. You make them feel heard, understood, valued.
And this, as simple as it may sound, is rare. It’s a skill that many lack but every great leader possesses. So if you’re someone who truly listens when others speak, then you’re already ahead of the game. You’ve got one of the key marks of a natural born leader.
8) You always want to get better
One of the hallmarks of highly successful people is their constant desire to improve, a trait known as “self-enhancement.”
If you’re always eager to learn more, to grow, to improve upon your skills and abilities, then you’re already demonstrating this valuable trait.
You’re not content with staying as you are; you want to be the best version of yourself. This drive for self-improvement is a clear sign that you possess the mindset of a natural born leader. After all, a leader is someone who never stops learning and growing.
9) You stick to your beliefs
There was this one time when I was working on a project with a team. The majority wanted to cut corners to meet the deadline, but I didn’t agree. It went against my belief in quality work.
I voiced my concern, stood my ground, and eventually convinced the team to take the right path, even though it was harder.
Sticking to your principles, even when it’s tough, is a sign of a true leader. If you’ve found yourself in similar situations where you stood firm in your beliefs, then you’re definitely showing signs of being a natural born leader.
10) You stay calm when things get tough
Let’s face it, life can be a real mess sometimes. Things go wrong, pressure builds up, and chaos seems to be the order of the day.
But in the midst of all the confusion, you’re there, standing tall, staying calm. It’s not because you’re oblivious to the problems or because you don’t care. It’s because you understand that freaking out doesn’t help; staying calm does.
And this ability to keep your cool when everyone else is losing theirs? That’s the true leader right there.
And next time you’re in a tough spot and manage to stay calm, give yourself a pat on the back. You’ve got what it takes to lead.
Final thoughts
And there you have it!
These are the signs that you’re a natural born leader.
If you see yourself in these points, then it’s time to step up and embrace your leadership potential.
Because the world needs more leaders like you – leaders who inspire, listen, and stay calm under pressure!
