By Steve Fiebiger, Community Voices

Leadership consists of many attributes, components and qualities. When we think of leaders the range is far and wide, from George Washington and Abraham Lincoln to the volunteer leader of our local board or committee. Some are not in the designated role of leader, but we know we can count on them to get the job done. Some people lead by example and let their actions speak for themselves. Leadership is contextual, in that we need good leaders for specific roles.

In this election year, the bombardment of political campaign ads has begun. On the national level, there is finger pointing at perceived weaknesses of opponents. In Minnesota, we’ve seen bowlers who aren’t bowling claim they are more qualified to serve. This matched up against an ad about not paying enough rent for a million dollar apartment. What is important, in my view, is not what people say about their opponent, but what the candidates have done to display leadership. Leadership is not sophomoric attack ads belittling the competition. Instead, it requires a vision of where we want to be as a community and as a country. Does the candidate offer real solutions to problems and challenges or simply state what they don’t like? Identifying problems is easy. Finding solutions takes creativity, courage and compassion.

I thought I would share some qualities I think good leaders possess and have come up with a list of 10 qualities for good leaders. These are not necessarily in any order of importance because strong qualities are important for all leaders. Because all leaders are unique, I’m sure there are other qualities that could be included and my list might differ from yours.

1. Persistence. If you start something, finish it. Don’t give up simply because things become difficult. Show up, make a difference, and find a solution.

2. Pride. Do a good job. You don’t have to be perfect, but be proud of who you are and what you do without apology.

3. Patience. Take the necessary time. Be a good listener. The best ideas don’t always come from the person talking.

4. Integrity. Do the right thing and make good choices, even if they may not always be the most popular. Keep your word.

5. Forgiveness. Life’s too short to stay mad at people. We all make mistakes in our journey here on earth. Learn from them and move on.

6. Kindness. Follow the Golden Rule and treat others like you would want to be treated.

7. Loyalty. Remember your friends, family, colleagues, and others who were there for you before you became the leader.

8. A sense of humor. Be able to laugh with others and at yourself.

9. Compassion. Be aware of the consequences for others that will follow your actions.

10. Courage. Be willing to pursue what is right for the good of the whole, even if at your own expense.

Leaders look out for others and the good of the whole. The people’s needs take priority over a personal agenda. The ability to change as circumstances change is vital. We know good leaders when we see them. We like being around them and working with them. We place our trust in those we elect to demonstrate good leadership qualities. When good leadership happens we reap the benefits. When it doesn’t happen we see the consequences. We need good leaders now more than ever. 

(Steve Fiebiger is one of 10 people in the Savage community who write for Community Voices. This column features a different writer each week and is one of several opinion and commentary pieces appearing regularly in this newspaper.)