Plenty of information has been written about leaders and what makes them successful. A successful leader will exhibit many characteristics, traits and actions that will cause others to follow them. Why? Because they see something in them worth following.

Here are a few thoughts on what I believe are key to a successful leader.

• Lead because you want to
• Lead with compassion and truth
• Deliver a message that inspires and motivates
• Live by the code others will emulate
• Provide a vision for the future. Offer hope
• Provide those you lead a chance to shine
• Make other people feel important and appreciated
• Live a life of integrity. Not only by words, but by your actions as well
• Set the standards others are willing to follow
• Cultivate the talents of those you lead
• Continuously learn and educate others
• Create an environment of constant development
• Set the pace through your expectations and example
• Provide opportunities for people to grow, both personally and professionally
• Care and act with compassion
• Everyone has potential. Look beyond their short comings

Remember! Just because you have a title doesn’t make you a leader