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Carolyn Smagalski
Self Respect
Founder - Editor - Host
There's a Welsh proverb that says, "Be honorable yourself if
you wish to associate with honorable people."
Honor and integrity are the character traits of a true
leader. These are abstracts that can only take form with
clear definition. Anyone who wishes to lead with
effectiveness needs to have these abstracts aligned with a
clear belief system.
Consider these principles as you define your belief system:
Courage that does not waver in the face of challenge.
This is based on your knowledge and experience, and from your
development of self-confidence. Work to develop
self-confidence! Maya Angelou wrote, "One isn't necessarily
born with courage, but one is born with potential. Without
courage, we cannot practice any other virtue with consistency.
We can't be kind, true, merciful, generous, or honest."
Self-control in your thoughts and actions
sets you apart as one who strives to have a keen grasp of your
surroundings. You are able to assess situations more clearly
when you practice self-control.
The ability to make decisions
without wavering is a sign that you have evaluated all sides
of a challenge.
A "sense of fairness"
commands respect from others.
Give clarity to your plans.
George Burns said, "Define your business goals clearly so that
others can see them as you do."
Avoid the temptation to make decisions based on guesswork.
Envision the end result; then make decisions based on
achieving that result.
Develop a willingness to go the extra mile…to
do more than you are paid for…to clearly and distinctly
exhibit a willingness to consistently exceed the expectations
of others.
Enthusiasm, self-respect and the ability to project magnetism
is also a necessary part of integrity and honor. "There is
real magic in enthusiasm. It spells the difference between
mediocrity and accomplishment," said Norman Vincent Peale.
Understanding of your associates
and their problems will give you greater ability to be
effective. Others instinctively know when you truly care
about their needs. You will earn more cooperation when you
develop the attributes associated with a concern for others.
In contrast to more common belief, assuming responsibility for
yourself and for the actions of your followers strengthens
your position as a leader. Your associates become more loyal
as you display a willingness to be the backbone and strength
of your organization. This leads to more cooperative effort
and support toward the accomplishment of your goals.
Content copyright © 2003-2008 by Carolyn Smagalski. All rights
reserved. This content was written by Carolyn Smagalski.
If you wish to use this content in any manner, you need
written permission.
Contact Carolyn Smagalski
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