What trait do you think best describes a leader and why by Kian

What trait do you think best describes a leader and why by Kian - December 2021 Scholarship Essay

Thank you for the opportunity.

To me the best trait for a leader is one who let's their people be themselves. A good leader finds the best people for the task at hand, and provides them with the best circumstances and support possible, then leaves them be to do what needs to be done. This trait is admirable whether you're a manager at RaceTrac, the head of a volunteer organization, or the President of a country.

Why?

The most important reason, and one I believe has been lost in the education system, is people need to be able to make mistakes. You have never failed if you've never tried. The best way to learn is to make a mistake. The key as leader is to provide guidance so no disastrous mistakes are made. It's a challenge for the leader also. It is not always easy to stand aside and let someone mess up when you know you can help.

Which leads to another reason a hands-off approach is good. If the leader is constantly standing over the people micromanaging, that leads to stress, resentment and anger. If an environment is created where it seems you have to read a leader's mind or can't make a move without direction, it leads to resentment and uncertainty. There will be much less independent thought and action, and much more turnover!

And this is the final point. A leader who is hands off, who lets his people make mistakes, to let them do things their way is giving people freedom. The freedom to be themselves, to complete the task at hand and live their lives the way they want. When people are free to express themselves the way they want, the job, or the organization or the society as a whole is enrichened.

Are there downfalls to a job, organization or a society who functions like this? Of course, no system is perfect. But I think if given the option between living a life where people can take chances and freely express is a much better option than being micromanaged and suppressed.

Thank you for your consideration.