Identify your ‘reluctant’ leaders

5 characteristics to look for.

by: Walt Grassl

Do you know someone who is very comfortable doing a job that has no leadership dimension, even though you just know they will thrive as a leader? Many of them have a condition that is sometimes referred to as “altitude sickness.” This is not the medical condition that occurs when you are at high altitudes and cannot get enough oxygen. This altitude sickness refers to the fear of success, of reaching great heights.

Interestingly, reluctant leaders are often the best leaders. This is because they lead from a desire to serve, not a desire for power.

The following are five signs to identify reluctant leaders:

1. Peers seek their counsel. Most organizations have two kinds of leaders: People with leader in their title and people who are sought out for advice by their peers.

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