![3 Commitments Every Influential Leader Needs to Make [Infographic]](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/571fc0ea1d07c0fd6d72c167/1495570570263-T142H0MODCM46LXBMTPO/image-asset.jpeg)
Influence: the action that results in causing change in someone without using force or coercion.
An influential leader is someone who has a positive impact on the people and the organization which he or she serves and does so consistently over a long period of time. These leaders are not super-human, but they are different. What makes them influential leaders is first who they are and second what they do.
Regardless of our position, we all can be leaders that have a positive influence. Why? Because positive influence does not require a position, only a relationship. Each of us has intrinsic worth and the ability to influence or lead, some on a large scale and others on a small scale.
The following are the three commitments that we believe leaders need to make in order to be effective and have a positive influence. Put these on your desk or somewhere visible as a constant reminder to lead well.
“Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.”
“A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.”
“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.”
Jay Desko is the CEO of The Center Consulting Group and brings experience in the areas of organizational assessment, leadership coaching, decision-making, and strategic questioning. Jay’s degrees include an M.Ed. in Instructional Systems Design from Pennsylvania State University and a Ph.D. in Organizational Behavior and Leadership from The Union Institute.
