Fearless Leaders Are Valiant.

Fearless Leadership: Pillar Four - Valiant

The Five Pillars of Fearless Leadership are BRAVE: B for Bold; R for Respectful; A for Adventurous; V for Valiant; and E for Empathetic.

Today we are focusing on VALIANT.

This is an interesting concept, one that most leaders would not consider an important pillar of their leadership style. What is a valiant leader and why should this be one of your most important pillars? Valiant leaders are generous: giving of their time, energy and support. Generosity in the workplace includes kindness, open-handedness and freedom from smallness of mind. Generous leaders teach these traits to team members, and generosity of spirit from leader to team and between team members creates an incredibly positive culture. Valiant leaders are spirited and confident, spreading positivity throughout their organizations to spur people on to take risks and share non-conventional ideas. So, when it is time to stand up for what is right and true, and be a role model, the valiant leader always comes through.

Valiant leaders are open enough to see things clearly, not overlooking aspects of their environment and interactions that are important. Their increased awareness allows them to face all situations with an open mind and with humanity. Standing up for what is right and true, in conversation, emails and interactions is key. Valiant leaders undo oppression and jettison environments that stifle creativity and openness.

Sandy’s Valiant Leadership Tips:

·       Never stay behind a closed door for long – an open-door policy is generous.

·       There’s never anything more important that time with a team member that needs you.

·       Even in internally competitive environments, encourage team members to help each other.

·       Be an example by taking risks and not being afraid to fail publicly so others will follow suit.

·       Don’t take the easy way out – look for the nugget behind the curtain to really see and connect with what is going on.

·       Be caring with all communication – take a moment to be mindful of your impact on others.

Get out there and be a VALIANT Leader.

Sandy Heydt is former c-suite marketing executive with a background as a counseling psychologist. She is an organizational start-up and turnaround specialist, working with business owners and investors worldwide, including human space flight, flying car companies, and luxury hotels. Skilled at maximizing human potential, she is a leadership coach and speaker who focuses on leading with humanity. You can reach her at sandy@heydt.co.