3 Myths About Being An Inspirational Leader

In a previous post I defined what an inspirational leader is and why it matters. Today I am going to expand on that and bust 3 myths around what it means to be an inspirational leader so that the people who thought they didn’t fit the profile can step forward as the authentic inspirational leaders they want to be.  

Myth 1: You have to be an extrovert to be an inspirational leader. 

This myth on its own is enough to deter great people from stepping forward to make a change in the veterinary profession.  

Introverts renew their energy from being alone with themselves and their thoughts, whereas extroverts gain energy from being around other people. Which is more effective for inspirational leadership? Both have their place. 

The work of an inspirational leader is not always about being involved, taking action and the “doing”, a lot of the work you will do starts within. You have to be able to connect easily with your inner world, be comfortable with your thoughts and feelings, and face discomfort over and over again. That then turns into meaningful action.  

At the same time, you have to be visible to your team. Inspirational leadership is also about hands on motivating and inspiring people, leading change, promoting a mission etc.  

If you lean more one way than the other, into the introvert camp or extrovert camp, the key is to manage your energy appropriately so that you can re-energise appropriately, or retreat appropriately, in order to give the best of yourself to others.  

Myth 2: Position determines leadership.
 
A job title does not a leader make. No leader can lead without the buy in, trust, and respect of their team. Slightly adapting a quote from Brian Tracy to emphasise this point – “Being an inspirational leader is about becoming the leader people would follow voluntarily, even if you had no title or position.”  

 Leadership is a mindset. It’s a way of being. It shows up in all areas of your life, and it starts with leading yourself.  

I think we have many inspirational leaders in the profession, many of whom are not in official leadership roles. It’s the person who leads themselves quietly in the background. It’s the person who acknowledges others and celebrates their contributions. It’s the person who is willing to help others achieve greatness, before themselves.  

Maybe you know someone like that? 

The job title is not the destination, it’s just the beginning. 

Myth 3: Inspirational leadership is a high intensity role.

When you think about being an inspirational leader, you might think it sounds like a big, busy job that requires a lot from you. You may feel like it’s a role you simply couldn’t keep up with. After all, who can be inspirational 24/7? 

When it comes to inspirational leadership (or anything in life really!) consistency beats intensity, always.   

If you focus on intensity, your flame will burn out quicker. If you focus on consistency, it becomes sustainable and more inspiring. As per a favourite quote of mine (origin unknown) – “If you want to be taken seriously, be consistent.”  

So, there you have it. 3 myths busted. Now, what does this mean for you? Are you someone who hasn’t considered themselves inspirational because you don’t fit the stereotype? How do you feel now?