“The key to successful leadership is influence, not authority.” - Kenneth H. Blanchard

Leadership is a topic that will typically interest businesses, managers, and CEOs. It is undoubtedly true that these are people who should try to understand what makes a good leader and who can receive help by following leadership tips and advice.

In this book, we will be addressing the concept of leadership primarily from this angle. Most examples will pertain to leaders within organizations – whether those are charitable organizations or whether they are massive corporations.

Leadership is a Life Skill

That said, leadership is a life skill that should appeal to many more people than that!

That is because leadership is something that we are all called upon to provide at some point. One of the most common examples given is the parent-as-leader. As a parent, you must supply your children with guidance, teaching, mentorship, and discipline.

There will be times when you must inspire your children to be the most excellent versions of themselves. But there will also be times when you must supply strict and stern instructions that could save their lives!

And, of course, there will be battles when trying to send them to bed!

An influential leader will know how to listen and make the child feel heard while at the same time giving them the space and the protection they need to grow.

Leadership is a Superpower

Then there is the leader who appears in a crisis. In this situation, leadership is a superpower.

Imagine that you are in a public space when suddenly the place collapses. You are trapped beneath the rubble, and everyone is panicking, trampling one another. It would help if you worked together to get help, ration food, and care for the injured.

In this situation, the person who rises to become the leader will be the person who is the most informed and the person who is the most confident. If no one takes that mantle, the situation could quickly go south.

Being an influential leader is something that everyone should be capable of so that they can rise to the occasion when it arises.

Leadership Outside of Work Environments

Finally, leadership can make your social and dating life much more enjoyable. There is a power structure in every relationship and group dynamic. Being the leader means being the one who gets to be in charge, decides the activity, and takes responsibility.

If you can be that person, you will find it wonders for every aspect of your career.

So, while leadership primarily pertains to businesses, we all should strive to cultivate this. That is why throughout the book, we will also look at how lessons and examples apply to those not working within an organizational hierarchy.