Born a Leader?

A common misconception is that leadership is something you either have or you don’t. Let me make one thing perfectly clear—your ability to lead has nothing to do with genetics. You are not bound by the leadership styles of those who came before you. Just because your father was a difficult boss does not mean you are destined to be the same. One of the most frequently asked questions about leadership is, C

an leadership traits be learned? I wholeheartedly believe they can. While some individuals may naturally exhibit leadership qualities, effective leadership is developed through education, training, and experience. It requires continuous self-improvement, reflection, and a commitment to growth. Those who dedicate themselves to becoming better leaders don’t just improve their own abilities—they elevate those around them.

One of the most impactful approaches to leadership is Servant Leadership, where the focus is on empowering and uplifting others. This philosophy fosters trust, collaboration, and long-term success by prioritizing the needs and development of others before personal gain. The key characteristics of a servant leader include empathy, truly understanding and caring for others; active listening, ensuring every voice is heard and valued; healing, creating a supportive and encouraging environment; awareness, staying mindful of people and surroundings; and persuasion, guiding others with reason and integrity rather than authority alone. Great leaders also focus on conceptualization, seeing the bigger picture; foresight, preparing for the future; stewardship, responsibly managing resources; commitment to the growth of others, investing in their development; and building community, fostering a culture of trust and support. My life has been deeply enriched by embracing these principles, and my hope is that today, I have inspired someone to step into their own leadership journey with the heart of a servant leader.

Greg Cannon