Inspiration;
the process of being mentally stimulated to do or feel something, especially do to something creative. – Oxford Dictionary 2025.
Ronald Reagan once said that “the greatest leader is not necessarily the one who does the greatest things; he is the one that gets the people to do the greatest thing”.
Inspiring leaders do great things with the help of others by bringing out the best out of their people. This is why nobody is truly self-made, because we need others to thrive.
If you admire inspiring leaders and want to better engage those around you, here is how.
When people around the world are asked to reflect on both inspiring and infuriating leaders, they point to three factors that distinguish the former from the latter (Galinksy, 2025):
(1) Inspiring leaders are visionary; they give their people a sense of meaning and purpose by seeing the big picture and fostering optimism about the Future.
(2) Inspiring leaders are calm and courageous; they exhibit behaviours that people admire. They are authentic, passionate and competent. This makes people feel safe and passionate in turn.
(3) Inspiring leaders are great mentors; they are empathetic and they empower and encourage others to be the best version of themselves. This makes people feel supported and fulfils their needs for status.
How do you increase your capacity in each of these categories?
Be a Visionary
To be perceived as a visionary you have to develop your communication/presention skills and the right message.
The right message comes from the right state of mind. Train your optimism and a big picture based on the company’s values and also, strategic direction. Discover and articulate your own values, who you are and what you stand for. This is especially important in times of crisis so that you can stay consistent. Beware of the small-minded, pessimistic attitude.
When presenting use clear, simple and vivid language that boils down the message to its essence. I recommend that you study and emulate the best speeches (of business leaders and others).
Communicate as often as possible, keep your people informed and involved. Especially during stressful times, show yourself as much as possible.
Lead by Example
One of the main sources of confidence is observing what others we admire are doing.
When you are calm, composed, passionate and you feel good in your skin (all aspect of Executive Presence) you empower others to be the same. Confidence is literally infectious but so are negative behaviours such as anger, fear and stagnation.
To successfully lead by example, recall the times when you felt at your best – powerful and in control. This will also help you foster optimism, broaden your vision and authenticity.
Be a Mentor
People – especially the new generation, want leaders who care about them and their development.
Move from control to empowering and elevating those around you as much as possible. Share your leadership responsibilities, learn basic coaching techniques (listening, asking good questions, giving feedback) and understand what motivates them.
Keep your mind open, because different people are motivated by different things; some are more motivated by delivering results, others by building relationships and again others by being close to ‘power.’
To be more inspiring set your intentions on what you want to change. Self-reflection and awareness are crucial to adopting new leadership skills and self-development.
What can make you be a more inspirational leader?
Choose and commit to just One Thing that you can practice from each category.
Source: Adam D. Galinsky ‘What Sets Inspirational Leaders Apart’, March-April 2025, Harvard Business Review.
Image: Alamy, Emma Grede, An Entrepreneur and a Business Person.