(10 Principles of Modern-Day Leaders Series)

The paradigm of leadership has shifted over recent decades. With multiple generations in the workplace, a globally connected world, competitive job markets, demand for work/life balance, and fast-moving changes in technology, leaders need to adapt to changes and understand how to effectively connect with those they are leading.

In this ten-part series, we layout ten principles that modern leaders can lead with to be the most effective difference makers they can be.

Just for fun, I decided to search “leadership books” on Amazon to see how many results I’d get. The answer: Over 60,000. That’s just books! This doesn’t begin to include articles, blogs, podcasts, videos, online classes, and other useful resources you might be able to find on the internet. Neither does this include your opportunity to seek mentorship, local classes, attend leadership summits or events, or have conversation with local leaders you can connect with on a personal level.

Great leaders make it a priority to take advantage of these resources and never stop learning. In fact, memory and brain performance expert Jim Kwik says the average CEO reads four or five books each month, and you can bet many of those readings relate to their ability to lead others.

Even if a great leader becomes highly effective at leading others, he or she knows that leadership is a skill, and like all skills, the ability to influence and add value to others must be continually sharpened and developed. Think about it: A great basketball player doesn’t get great at shooting free throws and stop practicing this part of their game. A great musician never stops practicing their instrument in their spare time. A great chef doesn’t quit experimenting with spices and trying new recipes. Leaders, managers, coaches, teachers, or anyone with a position of influence needs to follow the same guidelines of continuous improvement and continued learning.

Your personal strategy for continued education and leadership growth doesn’t need to be exhausting, but if you wish to be a better leader, you do need a plan for continued growth. Here are a few ideas to consider as you get started...

• Listen to one leadership podcast each week. Be sure to sit somewhere relaxing with a pen and paper to take notes.
• Read four leadership books over the next twelve months (one each quarter). Audiobooks are great if that fits your style. Take notes as you’re reading/listening to highlight key information you find valuable.
• Seek mentorship if available. Whether it’s inside or outside of your workplace, spend time with leaders. Come prepared with questions and make sure you show appreciation for the mentor that’s giving you their time.
• Follow positive influential leaders on social media for inspiration. Many social media influencers will share quotes, videos, or articles with information you might be able to find useful to your growth and development.

Remember not to get frustrated or overwhelmed if you’re not where you want to be in regards to your influence over others. Leadership development is a process, and nobody becomes an expert in a day. If you have the discipline and the perseverance to continually learn and get better each day, you’re on your way to becoming the leader you were meant to be.