What Makes a Leader Great?

COURAGE is one of the most underrated characteristics of leadership.
Video from the Banca Mediolanum National Convention, May 2023
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Simon is an unshakable optimist. He believes in a bright future and our ability to build it together.
Described as “a visionary thinker with a rare intellect,” Simon has devoted his professional life to help advance a vision of the world that does not yet exist; a world in which the vast majority of people wake up every single morning inspired, feel safe wherever they are and end the day fulfilled by the work that they do.
Simon is the author of multiple best-selling books including Start With Why, Leaders Eat Last, Together is Better, and The Infinite Game.
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Website: simonsinek.com/
Live Online Classes: simonsinek.com/classes/
Podcast: apple.co/simonsinek
Instagram: / simonsinek
Linkedin: / simonsinek
Twitter: / simonsinek
Facebook: / simonsinek
Simon’s books:
The Infinite Game: simonsinek.com/books/the-infi...
Start With Why: simonsinek.com/books/start-wi...
Find Your Why: simonsinek.com/books/find-you...
Leaders Eat Last: simonsinek.com/books/leaders-...
Together is Better: simonsinek.com/books/together...
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#SimonSinek

[@amiammusic]

“Leadership is the awesome responsibility to see those around us rise.” Wow! 💥

[@InnerWisdom742]

Another perspective of a leader: no one leaves a good leader behind, it's a matter of assigning work in accordance with the employees' abilities.

[@jeff_forsythe]

@@InnerWisdom742 please send me any reply as a test

[@RyanHawk]

Simon will forever be such an inspiration when it comes to leadership 💪

[@LeadingDaily]

Yes. This is the first video that comes up when you type "Leadership" in KZbin.

[@annapoorni1]

Courage is also the most underrated attribute in life. Courage to do the right thing not knowing the outcome. Humility (to accept that you may be wrong), clear thinking, empathy could be other much needed attributes

[@vincentbanda3217]

Courage is understated and not fully understood. Thanks for unfolding this key leadership characteristic

[@mararozsa3756]

WE NEED MORE MAN LIKE HIM PLEASE.MORE REAL MAN WITH BALLS WHO DOES THE RIGHT THINGS.

[@FuentesStudios]

This is so true! A good leader is someone who is humble, always learning and serving others, not the other way around. To be a leader is to be a follower.

[@yuyutsu7]

I am lucky enough to know someone who is that type of leader. My better half. She has not only led multiple healthcare businesses ($100s of millions) through insane topline and bottom line growth, she has done it in true servant leadership spirit. The people around her who have grown in their careers swear by her and will follow her to the end of the earth! I am so proud of her! She has clear values and not afraid to make tough decisions based on those values. One of the reasons why people want to follow her.

[@imadb1305]

.........Thank U Mr Simon for coming to the world 🙏💪.........

[@MrCooper83]

Well you should thank his parents then.

[@elizabethe5976]

Thank you for this. Needed it today.

[@ninamodi15]

Extremely well articulated.

[@TArif5]

Simon ❤! A true inspiration!

[@mel4887]

I could listen to him all day long. Thank you 🙏🏻

[@billkeyes4707]

Excellent vid. Retired now, I’ve been fortunate to have worked for a number of outstanding leaders. I distilled the most important traits to 4 Principles of Leadership: 1. Be there 2. Be fair. 3. Lead from the front. 4. Never forget the leader is the servant of those who follow. As you say leaders can be anywhere in an organization. I’ve come across outstanding leaders in the Board Room (seldom, sadly) and the shop floor (more often).

[@LeadingDaily]

Excellent comment! 4 Principles of Leadership

[@theliljc84]

I’ve lead by your philosophy for years but have never been able to articulate it. Thank you for putting my thoughts and actions into words.

[@racaciaruth4460]

I love that...students of leadership. Always learning. Beautiful

[@dewsiey]

Thanks Simon! from this video we can understand that leadership is not just a rank or a form of power. Authentic leadership includes trust, the choice to support others, and the courage to advance the vision without forgetting integrity. Leadership is an endless learning journey where we are all evolving learners. Courage is at the core of leadership and this quality is often overlooked.

[@cheapskateotaku7123]

Simon is the only person that inspire me to be a leader 😊

[@daniellababak6866]

Thanks Simon ❤

[@retrogamerdave362]

This is absolutely true, I had a CO like that in the military. I learned a lot from him about how to really be there for your people and to help them rise no matter whay

[@MattGillis]

Very good. Ultimately, the key to successful leadership is finding the right balance between authority and servanthood, and having the courage to lead with integrity and compassion.

[@elijahalexander9843]

Thank you Simon

[@glauberrodrigofernandes]

Thanks Simon!

[@dogethsamurai2390]

Thank you what make a great leadership is to see yourself and other people rise, and to be able to keep the team together and lead the team to the greater height.

[@winfriedtheis5767]

Thanks, Simon! You just confirmed that I am aspiring to be a true leader, and seem to have been not only in the last 7 years with an actual leadership position. I ended up being the leader of the team in school projects and other contexts, actually not wanting to be the leader in more than one case. Only after meeting the best manager I ever had, did I realise that leading teams would give me joy, because I can make people thrive and succeed by leading them, by taking obstacles out of the way for them to reach our joint goals.

[@silviachioato2918]

always inspiring for me ...

[@OlgaSuner-dx7fq]

Simon discusses so many topics openly and that is because his courageous nature. He reminds me of my French teacher (and yes I believe in transference 😊) who was courages and took the steps toward the vision. Lately was featured with Emanuel and Brigette Macron and was interviewed if it wasn’t the courage and belief in vision there is no possibility that this would have taken place.

[@faaizahmiller2938]

I totally agree with you Simon

[@faaizahmiller2938]

I am a motivational speaker in woman empowerment I have learned a lot through your videos thank you

[@samiksharokdey5997]

See those around us. Choose to be the Leader we had. Who knows ye sahi ye galat...very depth knowledge Leadership, I stand for your Dreams. Best Leaders are students of Leadership. Even the most senior leaders are reading books having conversations all the Time. Study it. Ignored Characteristics of Leadership. Not Huge Role changing Reason but all have a courage Courage to take risk, Courage to do new things...

[@AhkmadL]

2:20 really hit. It was very insightful, especially the short-term ups and downs.

[@stackinpaper]

I just recently became a lead in my organization. Throughout my time in this position members on my team constantly tell me that I was meant to lead, that's why you were chosen to lead us, let us know what needs to be done and we'll do it. The best response I get from some team members when I ask them to oversee a project/task is 'don't worry, i got you. I really didn't understand why the team continue to say these things but that statement, “Leadership is the awesome responsibility to see those around us rise.” hits the nail on the head for me and my character. My primary goal in this position is to make sure my team members have the tools and the guidance they need to be the best they can be in what they are doing. My favorite movie quote is from Remember the Titans. "Attitude reflect leadership" I am truly thankful that the members of the team I lead has the best attitude in the organization.

[@johncastleii8265]

Thank you Simon. I am a teacher and I use your videos to teach leadership to my robotic students. They are in my robotic team. I have most of these students for 4 years through high school. I hope that they learn what it means to be a good leader and go off into the world to make it a better place.

[@karwanhamo9683]

Respect!

[@shunwei610]

Most speeches I see online, including Mr. Sinek's speech, give many examples and talk about leadership in the same way. Leading teams in school projects and other settings has made me realize that leading people and removing obstacles for them to achieve our shared goals will make leading teams enjoyable. These are the best teachers I have ever had. I therefore want to be a real leader.

[@dingcarlos]

I totally agree that successful leaders start by articulating their purpose or why they exist. This goes beyond just making a profit and taps into the deeper motivations that drive individuals and organizations. Great leaders don't just manage tasks. They also inspire people to follow them. By connecting with the emotions and beliefs of their team or audience, leaders can create a sense of loyalty and commitment.

[@mukendiikoatshivuadi1257]

❤

[@sudhasivanaga1460]

Fantastic.

[@user-ur8zi8kc9z]

Excellent clip!

[@obliviousloveonfire]

the best person in the world is knowing the fact that his/her existence is bringing the light in the world full of toxic situation

[@ManjitSingh-eo6yv]

My role model is Sahib Sri Guru Gobind Singh, a leader like none else. There was never one like him and never will be. A true Saint, a true solider, a true musician, a true poet, a compassionate true Guru, who was also a follower to his Khalsa Sikhs, a divine soul that was sent on this earth to teach truth, peace, justice, freedom, and real purpose of life. That life of slavery is no life and one might as well be dead. My life belongs to my true spiritual father, a servant leader for millions, one and only Guru Gobind Singh! He is my emanicipator, my liberator and my true father. Waho waho Gobind Singh, apay Gur chela!

[@SeanMc-kn9xm]

💯 Facts

[@yuetmengkhoo1766]

A leader was once a student and how he was moulded and groomed plus his character would make up his skill in leading😊 today.😅

[@sanjoyroy3150]

Leaders are rare breed. Simon Sinek you definitely is part of that breed. 1000 Salutes

[@TheGreatest11122]

I'm about to be one and I can't wait

[@RealziesCuts]

Amen 🙏 ❤️✊

[@TheManagementBaba]

100% Agreeing with Simon ! Leadership is not about Rank, it's about decision making and qualities that sets a leader from Supervisor or Manager. Some qualities a leader must have - 1. Effective Communication 2. Guarding & Motivating Team 3. Empathy 4. Team Player 5. Courageous 6. Far Sighted Please let me know if I've missed a few !!!

[@otiliadurchi7814]

always, best advices Mr Simon Sinek gives [shares] in public speaches. (I) Still remember first speach I heard from him, [of his] - the one from/ at the Google conference. Lifted up, at that time (1-2 years ago) my confidence in myself and confirmed my life values I had garher ( & treasured) towards My life.... Don't know much about his life achievements, except for his work -job domenium is in helping people .. Great hearing someone speaking sooooo....simply and 'at object' (for everyone 's reasoning/ /via. language , to people hearts). I Guess, I imagine most probably he migh have the patience To stay and answer everybody's question after the speach. This is kindness responsability .. for someone who Does God's Will ..[ favour , shall I call it so.]

[@jakerjaker]

Courage!

[@carascreatives]

Facts!

[@drsanjidahashi3738]

Simon sir ❤❤❤

[@TheBestOfLisaRenee]

So good

[@user-gc8ev7jl8i]

From your videos, I learned that leadership has nothing to do with rank or a form of power. Courage is important for leaders. True leaders need courage to lead people . They also need to trust, support the opinion of others, and advance the vision without losing sight of integrity.

[@edume_english_school]

I used to listen your normal voice and listening to this it felt like someone else is talking instead of you

[@ceciliasshen]

I thought I was the only tripping 😂

[@Skillseboy1]

Who knows, maybe he had a bit of a cold or blocked nose

[@Potentilia28]

There is something wrong! He sounds and looks drunk

[@OlgaSuner-dx7fq]

It’s all speculation I think he speaks slowly in other countries specially to the immigrants. Or recording is off as you can hear echoing. I don’t think he is drunk .

[@racaciaruth4460]

Mr Sinek is definitely sick. I know his voice even in my sleep.

[@c.p.1688]

As a retired leader - ❤

[@sooyoungkwon2186]

Simon, can you please come to Seoul to do a talk? I would love to see you in Korea and I'm sure so many other people in Korea would love to hear you speak as well!

[@9milmama280]

I would love to see Simon Sink and Jocko Willink sit down and have a conversation about leadership. 🤯

[@martincote6499]

At the end of the day, "leadership" comes from within. When, at 30 seconds, Mr. Sinek speaks of people with no authority who "decide" to look after the person to their right and to their left, isn't it because they are genuinely good people, who are genreous to share their time and experience, just because that's how they are? Most of the talks online that I've seen (and there are more and more of them), including Mr. Sinek's at times, speak of leadership in the same manner as having blue eyes or being left-handed. It is not. Most of the supervisors I have been exposed to in my professional life were self-serving carreerists. And those will tend to spot their likes (birds of a feather flock together) and groom them in the organization because they believe they made it this far up because they are oh so good and therefore they need to repeat the process...

[@robertsmith7667]

Lol, leaders are there solely to serve the organisation

[@DeepLakeRC]

Yeah I see what ur saying. Anyone can be a leader, if their heart is it. And their goal is to serve.

[@ashleyhastings3229]

Leaders aren’t born. Leaders are trained.

[@ashleyhastings3229]

Your argument in many ways fortifies Simons point! When mr sinek spoke of regular people looking after those to their left or right regardless of rank, title or authority he was referring to the interpersonal phenomenon that occurs in mortal combat as an example. No politics, religion, rank or authority! Just as you said, “good people “! The point is leaders aren’t recognized by rank, position or appointed authority! It would be extremely convenient if all managers and supervisors were leaders. Fact is, leadership is most often a result of leadership! Supervisor supervises, managers manage, leaders lead!

[@setionos]

1. Leadership Misconceptions: Leadership is often misunderstood in business, as it has nothing to do with one's rank or authority within an organization. 2. Trust-Based Leadership: True leaders are those who earn trust and followership by making choices to care for their colleagues, regardless of their formal authority. 3. Servant Leadership: Great leadership involves taking the responsibility to help others rise and achieve their ambitions and dreams, prioritizing their success over personal gain. 4. Continuous Learning: Effective leaders are perpetual students of leadership, constantly seeking to improve their understanding through reading, conversations, and learning from others. 5. The Power of Courage: Courage is an often overlooked but crucial characteristic of leadership, encompassing the ability to advance a vision, take risks, believe in people, speak truth to power, and maintain integrity.

[@goldwing1999se]

I need you to go to IMP Group Ltd and give them a "Leader Ship Seminar" They are stuck in the 1960's. Their is so much potential their but they are stuck in time.

[@brain_respect_and_freedom]

💚

[@faridaaktar9387]

I am a Leader

[@nikyabodigital]

Here's a question Should a leader be involve in the workforce? Or just managing and reppin people? For example, in a development team with Team Leader, should that leader also work hands on developing? Or just the person that gets informed on everything so he could represent.

[@solc24]

Great question as I am experiencing a similar situation. In my observation and experience, a leader has to find that ebb of flow both ways. It's not enough to just be the one to represent and not know how to get your hands involved. Also, it's necessary for a leader to delegate the work process as needed so one is able to have the space and time management needed for other duties.

[@FrancoisTCS]

It depends on the team maturity, personalities which exists in the team and it varies in time. Leader is a chameleon, constantly adapt the style to the environment. Traits like courage, focus on others and other important leadership skills don’t depend on what the leader do….they exist anytime.

[@Concatenate]

Whatever you do, the point is to support, encourage and inspire those "under" you. This doesn't mean ignoring mistakes but navigating a way through them that is helpful. And it also involves taking the heat from those "above" you and protecting your team. I would also advise not using hollow praise, "this is the best team ever!" But rather getting to know the contributions of each team member and telling them how impactful their contribution was. Just my thoughts.

[@Agentkazne]

I have a courage and I can lead😀

[@Bill0102]

Incredibly well-done! This content is fantastic. I stumbled upon something similar, and it was astonishing. "The Hidden Empire: Inside the Private Worlds of Elite CEOs" by Adam Skylight

[@HikingLeadership]

Hello there! I just came across your fantastic video and it got me thinking about how, much like hiking, the journey of leadership and personal development is a challenging but incredibly rewarding path. 🌄 That's why I created 'Hiking Leadership,' my KZbin channel. It's all about embracing the similarities between hiking and personal growth. Just as every step taken on a trail brings us closer to the summit, every lesson learned in leadership and development gets us closer to our goals. If you're passionate about self-improvement and love the metaphor of hiking, 'Hiking Leadership' is the place for you. Let's embark on this transformative journey together! 🔥 Feel free to drop by and join the conversation. I'm always excited to connect with fellow travelers on this long and fulfilling expedition. Thanks for your inspiring content, and I look forward to having you as a part of the 'Hiking Leadership' community!

[@user-zy9ky1fn1v]

Good day im about to lead a team of 50 people with diverse cultures,how do i get them to follow the vision i believe in?

[@tinaparker7751]

My suggestion is to genuinely listen to what is important to them, find the intersection between their desires and your vision, and invite them into a win-win situation where their desires are fulfilled AND what's important about your vision is realized at the same time. Wishing you all the best!

[@aliensexist396]

True leader talk no shit.

[@techaddictdude]

Great Talk but why his voice is dubbed?

[@carrie668]

I don’t have the leader, only have a boss who only knows to pressure and force us to do and who doesn’t even like to be asked questions when things are not right 😢

[@t2adeel538]

leadership is the art of getting someone else to do something you want done because he wants to do it.keep your fears to yourself but share your courage with others,to handle yourself use your head,to handle others use your heart❤

[@InterestbearingCBDC]

I'm going to go first on social media says?

[@bhc017]

First one

[@godwinmanuel6963]

This reminds me of Jesus who modeled servant leadership by washing the feet of his disciples.

[@ygorff4234]

That was exactly what I thought. That prove to me that Jesus is the true leader of all church…

[@KunjeshNegandhi]

Hi Simon, your voice sounds different.. are you ok?

[@emmanoconer1750]

Damn that's me I thought I'm not good enough

[@kangroupsa3558]

Greatest example of leadership is Jesus Christ. Leadership starts with Love- Loving, Courage, Vulnerability, Faith and Hope.

[@GodsDaughterEmpress]

Amen!! Let’s strive to be more like Jesus “Imitate me, just as I also imitate Christ.” ‭‭I Corinthians‬ ‭11‬:‭1‬ ‭NKJV‬

[@delan1a567]

Qq​@@GodsDaughterEmpress

[@sarahk4830]

His voice changed

[@ChrisJoseph-ee9ne]

Spectators

[@jana6590]

Nice Words. Theories. Many people, great in Theory are the worst applies of their own Knowledge. Applies to you. And no, this is not a self reflection ( only ). APPLIES TO YOU SINEK, CONCRETE. There are People who do not articulate that eloquent in words but DO THE DEEDS. There are many doing the words but the opposite of the Deeds. According to my observation over the ears you are the opposite of Courage. Feige

[@user-zx1pc9eq8w]

I dont know why anyone follows me. Its always a surprise.

[@ff_gamedesign]

What happened with his voice ? Is he smoking now or something? I hope he is ok

[@Deanforbes]

It's too bad that those in leadership positions don't all have this same mindset!

[@anhnguyenhong8770]

Strike missiles Tu space de canh cao Russia. May quay nua la Xoa so Russia. Canh cao.

[@withoutdad7616]

Courage to tell the truth, get ridiculed, told not to give an opinion, be a yes-man, and get fired by people who project their insecurities onto everyone else. To be or not to be x everybody loses... won't admit the mistakes, but full of excuses and blame. Bottom line, most are making it up as they move forward...meme level.

[@tommymein9046]

Except for Elon Musk. He makes me want to drive a Tesla even though I don’t think that I won’t drive a Tesla. There’s something about him that I envy about him and kinda wish that I was more like him. “Go fuck yourselves”!

[@ivansandrk]

What Makes a Bullshitter Great?

[@Hans_Magnusson]

The best leaders know how to prioritize. Saying NO, is to prioritize! - Steve Jobs… So take this bs away