Influence is the magical part of leadership.
Influence is the magic that allows leaders to convert Vision and Desire into amazing actions and thrilling accomplishments.
So...How does one positively Influence others along the road to success?
Q: Does one need to be Intelligent?
A: Yes.
Q: Does one need to master Self-Control?
A: Yes
Q: Does one have to have Integrity?
A: Yes...if the success is to be constructive and sustained.
Q: Does one have to know People, Processes, & Situations?
A: Yes.
Q: Any other things?
A: Yes...here's 5...and here's 5 more...and here's another 5...and there's more.
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What do the wise have to say about Influence?
My favourite inspirational educator, Napoleon Hill said...
"Think twice before you speak, because your words and influence will plant the seed of either success or failure in the mind of another."
One of my heroes, Napoleon Bonaparte, said...
"The herd seek out the great, not for their sake but for their influence; and the great welcome them out of vanity or need."
Dale Carnegie, who wrote the book on how to win friends and influence people, said...
“When dealing with people, let us remember we are not dealing with creatures of logic. We are dealing with creatures of emotion, creatures bristling with prejudices and motivated by pride and vanity.”
Clint Eastwood, a widely respected Hollywood icon, said...
"It takes tremendous discipline to control the influence, the power you have over other people's lives."
And an unknown author said...
"Influence may be the highest level of human skills."
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If you want to be a great leader, or a good leader, or even a leader who accomplishes a few meaningful things...it's tough to argue that last point.
PS: Sustained positive Influence is the cause that leads to trust.