How To Be A Transformational Leader

Why is it that one CEO is remembered for his legacy and another one for the size of his salary? It’s because some people are able to transcend the ordinary and become kind of leaders that can change the world. They are the kind of leaders that move metaphorical mountains with their dreams. They are transformational leaders.Here are some key ways that you can harness the power of transformational leadership and use it in your organization:

1. Communicate a grand vision. 

There are two parts to this. First you need to have a grand vision to communicate. A vision so big and audacious that it brings tears to your eyes and gives you goosebumps when you think about it. So outlandish that people think you must be at least a little bit crazy when you tell them what it is. The second part to this is of course that you need to be able to communicate that vision.

You must be able to communicate your vision in a way that is compelling and inspiring. It should fill your team members with purpose and give them a sense of pride to share the journey with you. Great leaders don’t point and tell you where to go, they walk with you and lead you on a journey. ~ Narges Nirumvala

2. Embrace diversity and encourage abrasion.

Diversity has become a real buzz word in business today and rightly so. I believe that diversity of opinions and ideas is as important as gender, age and ethnic diversity.

You need people in your organization who will give you their honest opinion and willingly do what you say, not just cubicle clones who do what you say blindly out of fear. Encourage abrasion and even a little disobedience if it comes with a sound reason. Innovation often comes from diversity and abrasion. ~ Narges Nirumvala

3.  Always be present in the moment.

One quality of great transformational leaders is the ability to draw people to them by being completely present in the moment. When you’re in a conversation with someone or at a meeting with your team you need to give them your undivided attention. Listen attentively to what they have to say. Let them take you on a journey and be the leader for a moment.

4. Don’t just be motivated by the bottom line. 

Be driven by your vision and dreams. Let your highest calling pull you. Your goal should never be just to make more money. Monetary goals alone rarely give people a deep sense of purpose.

To be a truly transformational leader you must be a dreamer, someone who allows their creative mind to flourish.  But at the same time be anchored in your grand vision and let that fuel your fire. ~ Narges Nirumvala

5. Encourage ideas for all levels of your organization.

Too often leaders only encourage ideas from the best and the brightest. Sometimes it’s only the top tier of the organization that really gets to decide everything, even though they say it isn’t. To be transformational you need to turn that upside down and let ideas grow on all levels of your organization and not be hindered by titles, salaries or even abilities. You would be surprised what people can accomplish if you just believe in them.

6. Keep defying expectations.

No matter how hard you work and how driven you are people will try to put limitations on what you can accomplish. Sometimes you’ll even put those limitations on yourself. Don’t allow that to happen.

Defy other people’s expectations of you and push beyond what you believe to be possible into the realm of the impossible. Create a new reality. ~ Narges Nirumvala

Transformational leaders are a rare breed. You know them from the history books. They leave a powerful legacy behind that will impact future generations to come. They allow their dreams to become their reality and infuse their organizations with inspiration and deep purpose.You have that power too. Don’t waste it. Become the leader you were born to be.