After a remarkable eleven years at Michigan State University (1993-2004), President Peter McPherson, outlined the philosophy that characterized his achievements of MSU’s vision: “Have big ideas. Take risks. Be persistent.” That’s leadership.

Peter Drucker, Professor Emeritus at Claremont Graduate University in California is one of the most respected and timeless authors on leadership. In Drucker’s book, Management Challenges for the 21st Century, (Harper Collins; 1999) he says, “It takes far more energy to improve from incompetence to mediocrity than to improve from first-rate performance to excellence.”

“Recently, a few high-profile corporate CEO’s of the 21st century have attempted leadership without its most necessary components: integrity and character. They let greed overtake them,” says DeLapa. “Integrity is a mindset that governs our decisions. Decisions precede our actions and actions are the basis of character. We mold our character by the actions we take — or fail to take.”

Not everyone is capable of leadership. To lead you must be able to set aside your own agenda for the good of the organization. Like McPherson, you must have big ideas, take risks and be persistent.

• Build on the strengths that reflect your values.
• Improve your written and oral communication skills.
• Get organized, set goals and stay focused.
• Set priorities and be disciplined.
• Give credit when things go well — take responsibility when they don’t.

Ask yourself, “Am I willing to commit to being a leader? Can I generate trust in my followers? Do I have the integrity it takes to become a leader?”