The 11th trait of a leadership legacy is: A leader is a forgiver
Forgiveness is one of the traits that sets apart extraordinary from average to poor leadership. Failure to have a forgiving nature can quickly cause issues in a leadership position that can taint relationships at all levels in organizational functioning. Forgiveness provides leaders an opportunity to learn and progress in their own leadership.
Trust
To build trust, a leader must demonstrate competence, union, and a strong moral fiber. Forgiveness plays a huge role in trust building. Anyone can make a mistake – we are all humans and leaders are no exception. Occasional mistakes can be forgiven based on ability and the other strong character assets displayed, even if you are still growing as a leader – but with that being said – as a leader you have to be able to forgive as much as you expect forgiveness for the occasional mess-ups. However, if you are not trusted as a leader you are less likely to receive that unconditional forgiveness which can result in a quick demise of your role.
“Mistakes are always forgivable, if one has the courage to admit them.” ~ Bruce Lee
As important as it is to be a trusted leader that people can follow and forgive the occasional mishaps, it is just as important to be a forgiving leader. Nothing can move forward when preoccupied with past wrongs. Forgiveness equals second chances. Forgiveness dissolves built up animosity, anger, and resentment. Retribution can demolish kingdoms, companies, and relationships. Forgiveness can reconstruct them.
“He that cannot forgive others breaks the bridge over which he must pass himself; for every man has need to be forgiven.” ~ Thomas Fuller
As with anything, there is a process that needs to be followed when forgiveness comes into play. Effective forgiving leaders handle conflicts in private and personally – the problem at hand is not delegated out to another. When faced with issues that may require forgiveness, they are approached initially with a forgiving spirit. This is where strong conflict resolution skills come into play.
“The weak can never forgive. Forgiveness is the attribute of the strong.” ~ Unknown.
Forgiveness builds loyalty and good citizenship; people are more likely to make an extra effort. When people feel they are not forgiven for mistakes they make they are not going to be at their most productive; they will not take risks and will waste energy worrying about past transgressions. Through forgiving, you provide a better outlook on the future.
In addition, when a leader has an open forgiving nature, others are less likely to hide transgressions or mistakes. Forgiveness helps create an organization that has meanings – a place that provides growth; a place of work where people feel valued.
Forgiveness is complete when you:
- Don’t bring it up again after forgiveness was given.
- Don’t bring the transgressions of another up to others unless you are seeking advice in best method to handle the situation to deter any repeated offenses.
- Don’t dwell on it in your own head. Remember – living with resentment is like allowing someone to live rent free in your head.
- Don’t harbor ill feelings towards the transgressor.
Character-based leaders foster trust, are humble, have integrity, have and use their hearts, are authentic, show respect and are respected, demonstrate professional intimacy, are comfortable in their own skin, and are forgiving in nature. As a strong leader you want to leave a legacy, a positive impression and reflection for others. Your legacy will affect others so routinely check your actions and decisions and reflect how you are impacting others in a positive or negative way.
What are two or three personal characteristics which you would most like to be remembered for?