Exercising Authority

It is not easy to maintain authority on a group of people without using the power that your position provides. But, the best way to lead people is by not using those powers but using your managerial abilities, skills, knowledge with the harmony of the right communication techniques. When I take a look at the people around me that I respect the most, (job, friends, family) I realize that what they do most of the time is to understand and guide me to the right direction. It is hard to truly understand someone, as discussed at the earlier posts, but it it possible with emphatic thinking. What I observe is that me respecting those people, makes it possible for me to accept what they say easier than anyone else's claims. Thus I understand that respect is one of the most important element when considering leadership. A true leader should be the mirror of the group, reflect its skills, show them how beautiful they are. He should let the others shine and let them be autonomous. An understanding leader doesn't necessarily means that he shouldn't give up his authority, on contrary, he should always be present and influential.