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Seeking Confident Not Cocky; Brave Not Bossy

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The title of this post is something often written in online dating profiles. It is what many people are seeking in their potential mate. If you didn’t know that, just trust me…

I realized these are also two key characteristics many people are looking for in their leaders. Most of us crave leadership that is confident and will make a decision – not hide their heads in the sand when times get tough. We want a leader that will back us up when we make a decision, or when that customer is screaming at us like some crazy person.

So what’s the difference between confident and cocky? Brave and bossy?

  • A confident leader steps up to make a decision during challenging situations. A cocky leader only steps up to take the credit.
  • A confident leader is able to admit mistakes. A cocky leader places blame on others.
  • A confident leader is willing to let her (or his) staff get to know them as a human. A cocky leader thinks they are above everyone else.
  • A brave leader faces the critics for the team. A bossy leader sits at their desk and gives orders, never getting their “hands dirty.”
  • A brave leader will help their team think outside the box and support their ideas. A bossy leader thinks their way is the only way.

A confident, brave leader earns the respect and trust of their team. And that can make or break a team.

Be the leader (and the person) that makes everybody feel like a somebody! If you have other examples of confident and brave versus cocky and bossy, or any other thoughts please share in the comments below.

Unlock the potential!

With audacious love,

xoxoxo
Jennifer