Quotes That Sum Up What it Means to Be a Leader

Being a leader is no easy feat. No matter what industry you are in, or what type of people you are responsible for leading, there is a great deal of responsibility and pressure that comes with being a leader. Transforming into a successful leader is not something that happens overnight. It takes diligence, hard work and a willingness to commit to doing your best. You also need to truly know what it means to be a leader.

While different people will have their own different definitions of what leadership means, one of the best ways to get insight into what it means to be a leader, is to look at some of the most famous quote in history from the world’s most famous leaders. The words of individuals such as Howard Shultz, John F. Kennedy Jr. and Robin Sharma all give unique perspectives into leadership and what leadership means. Take a look at the words of today’s most influential past and present leaders for some insight on leadership.

Great Leadership Quotes You Need to Read Now

“Leadership and learning are indispensable to each other.” – JFK

“I think the currency of leadership is transparency. You’ve got to be truthful. I don’t think you should be vulnerable every day, but there are moments where you’ve got to share your soul and conscience with people and show them who you are, and not be afraid of it.” – Howard Schultz

“No man will make a great leader who wants to do it all himself or get all the credit for doing it.” – Andrew Carnegie

“The key to successful leadership today is influence, not authority.” – Ken Blanchard

“Effective leadership is putting first things first. Effective management is discipline, carrying it out.” – Stephen Covey

“Millions saw the apple fall, but Newton was the one who asked why.” – Bernard Baruch

“The test of leadership is not to put greatness into humanity, but to elicit it, for the greatness is already there.” – James Buchanan

“Leadership is not a popularity contest; it’s about leaving your ego at the door. The name of the game is to lead without a title.” – Robin Sharma

Simply looking at some of these quotes every day, or really taking the time to think about what these words of wisdom mean can instantly transform your perspective on leadership and help you be the best leader you can be, no matter what field you may be leading in.