The content of this podcast is based on an article series on good leadership, written by Per Winblad, CEO and Editor-in-Chief at Motivation.se. The article series, entitled "Tidlösa Principer för Gott Ledarskap" ("Timeless Principles for Good Leadership"), explores the qualities of a good leader, using King Solomon's proverbs as inspiration *.

This episode focuses specifically on the most important and challenging principle of good leadership is to live as you preach, that is, to act in accordance with vision and values. This creates credibility and inspires long-term commitment.

Live as you preach

This is the most central principle in this section. A good leader leads by example and acts in accordance with higher values. Actions build credibility. The source quotes King Solomon's proverb: "It is much better to remain silent about doing something than to say you will do something and then not do it.”

Credibility through consistency between words and actions

When employees see that the leader's words and actions are consistent, credibility is created. It is by being credible that a leader can inspire long-term commitment in the group.

Action as the basis for credibility

Actions are the basis for credibility in leadership. It is about acting in an exemplary and positive way.

Focusing on what matters

It is what the leader devotes time and attention to that counts. A good leader consciously devotes time to what stimulates the vitality and development of the group and prioritizes the opportunity to support both the group and the individual.

The role of the leader in creating an arena for success

A good leader understands his role in creating an environment in which employees can succeed and collaborate in a winning way. Individuals are unique and complementary, and they need supportive leadership to fully develop. The source quotes: “Without wise leadership, a country will struggle, but where there are good counselors, there is safety.”

Continuity and clear boundaries: A good leader gives the group a sense of continuity and defines boundaries that everyone must follow, especially the leader himself.

The quest to exploit potential

"Whatever you do, do it well." The source emphasizes that we all have greater potential within us. The core issue of leadership is how to create your future and elevate your surroundings to attract this potential.

Forward-looking and responsible for a better future

Good leaders realize that the way forward means deepening their own awareness of and belief in the future. The leader's responsibility is to always work for the good, a better future and a better world. This is based on a deep conviction in values ​​that have importance and validity beyond the self.

Advice for Becoming a Wiser Leader

• Treat those around you with dignity and respect.
• Carry the image of your group’s progress.
• Be a role model and a good example.
• Know your commitments and promises to everyone in the group.
• Set the highest standards for yourself.
• Know and feel the consequences of your decisions.
• Be an example in terms of relationships, attitudes, work habits...

Quote from Solomon *

” A good reputation is better than the most expensive perfume.”

"It is much better to remain silent about doing something than to say you will do something and then not do it.”

“Without wise leadership, a country will struggle, but where there are good counselors, there is safety.”

”Whatever you do, do it well."

Conclusion

The most powerful form of leadership, according to this source, is leadership by example. By consistently acting in line with their values ​​and vision, a leader creates credibility and trust, which is crucial for inspiring and developing both individuals and the group as a whole.

Source: Excerpts from "Tidlösa Principer för Gott Ledarskap” - a series of articles written by Per Winblad

* According to the Old Testament, Solomon was king of Israel during the 9th century BC. and ruled for 40 years. He was the son of King David and Bathsheba. He is known for his wisdom and for being the one who was allowed to carry out his father's plans to build the temple in Jerusalem. Source: Wikipedia