The misconception that only extroverts can be leaders overlooks the strengths of introverted leaders, who often earn respect by listening instead of dominating a conversation, recognizing their team's emotional needs and encouraging collaboration, Benjamin Laker writes. However, many leaders have both introverted and extroverted traits and know "when to draw on the strengths of each."
Put it into practice: Introverts can often unify teams better, making them feel seen, heard and supported, writes Laker, a professor with a focus on leadership. Their willingness to take time to analyze issues can give them a leg up in decision-making.
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LaRae Quy, a former FBI agent, argues that the pursuit of happiness often leads to disappointment because happiness is fleeting and connected to external circumstances. She explains that when we seek happiness, "we're asking the wrong questions" and should be looking deeper.
Put it into practice: Instead, turn your attention to your values, accepting yourself and joy -- which "is deeper and more enduring than happiness," Quy asserts. She notes that these are the things that give your life meaning.
Read more from LaRae Quy on SmartBrief on Leadership
In a constantly changing world, the leaders who succeed will have a passion for lifelong learning. Acquiring knowledge and welcoming feedback can help anyone improve leadership skills and communication, focus on growth and become more savvy and adaptable, life coach Rena Harvey writes.
Put it into practice: Reflect on core beliefs, such as integrity and compassion, and use those to help develop emotional intelligence. That, in conjunction with lifelong learning, can spark resilience and authenticity, says Harvey, author of "The Formula of Life: Go Deeper Rise Higher."
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Do we ever question a dog's motives? No. Because dog-saves-person stories are far more appealing than cat-ignores-human articles. Gita the dog ran for help in the woods of Washington after her owner, 84-year-old Keith Johnson, collapsed from a glucose problem. She sat in the middle of a nearby road until a sheriff driving by finally followed her through the woods. The details are aww-inspiring. Spoiler alert: They all lived happily ever after.
Remember when the 1989 Major League Baseball World Series was interrupted by a 6.9 magnitude earthquake? It happened in the backyard of the San Francisco Giants, who eventually lost to what team?