Being a leader isn’t for everybody, which is why most people choose to follow. For those who do wish to lead, and to do it well, here are five qualities of fantastic leaders that you’d be wise to take note of:

1. Clarity
   In order to successfully lead others, you have to know exactly what your objectives are and be able to clearly communicate them to your team. People only want to follow or take direction from somebody who knows what they want and has a cohesive, well-defined vision for the future. Most people don’t know what they themselves want, and are looking for the security and structure of somebody who does. 
    
2. Excitement
   Why would anybody ever look up to somebody who doesn’t care about their life’s work? People see enough dullness and boredom on a daily basis (maybe even within themselves), and are inspired when they see that a person is excited and passionate about a mission or project, or even just a distant vision. Be excited about your work, about your life, and people will naturally be drawn to you as a leader. 
    
3. Bravery
   Understandably, a good leader reassures their team by demonstrating strength in the form of bravery at all times. The same way a child needs to believe his or her parents could protect them from the dangers of the world, a team needs to feel like their leader will be willing to lead the battle if necessary. If courage is not a quality you now possess, you’ll have to practice and develop it. This is an instance where the “fake it until you make it” approach can really work: project an image of courage, and soon enough you feel begin to feel courageous. 
    
4. Self-awareness
   Yes, confidence is key, but arrogance will degrade your quality of leadership. Just because you’re in a of leadership, doesn’t mean you stop being a regular, flawed human being. But, if you refuse to acknowledge your flaws and mistakes as they come up, your team will see you as arrogant and difficult to relate to. People want to admire their leader, but when they feel they can relate to you, you’ll have a greater influence on them. When you acknowledge your shortcomings, maybe even laugh at them, call yourself out for them, you become a lovable persona that people are happy to invest their trust in. 

Want to reach your highest potential as a leader? Work on these characteristics, practice them in your everyday life, and soon you’ll be gifted “World’s Best Boss” coffee mugs without the sarcasm. You’ll be an influential go-getter with a following of like-minded people to help you bring your vision into reality.