Leadership Lessons from MLK

 

1. Great leaders do not sugar-coat reality.
2. Great leaders engage the heart. While logic may compel the mind, stories and metaphors move the heart. 
3. Great leaders refuse to accept the status quo. They are not passive; they are active. They are unwilling to acquiesce to their circumstances. 
4. Great leaders create a sense of urgency. They are impatient—in a good way. They refuse to just sit by and let things take their natural course. 
5. Great leaders call people to act in accord with their highest values. Call people to a higher standard.
6. Great leaders refuse to settle. Persistence and Perseverance.
7. Great leaders acknowledge the sacrifice of their followers. They notice the effort their people have expended. 
8. Great leaders paint a vivid picture of a better tomorrow. Leaders can never, never, never grow weary of articulating their vision. They must be clear and concrete.