Throughout history humans have struggled to define the concept of leadership. There are differing ideas of what good leadership should entail. While some argue that leadership inspires, Other contend that leadership is governance(st). Anyone familiar with leadership should agree that leaders should encompass three qualities(st). Leaders should empathize, guide and improve one’s followers.

A good leader should possess a high emotional intelligence quotient. Emotional intelligence is the ability to handle interpersonal relationships with empathy. Emotional intelligence is also the capacity to control and express one’s emotions. It has become common today to dismiss another person’s feelings and experiences(st). An empathetic leader makes their followers feel heard and less socially isolated. A relationship between a leader and their followers is based on emotional understanding. The follower will trust the leader to solve any problem. The followers will celebrate the fact that they have an understanding leader (st).

A leader should have enough authority to lead his followers. The leader should be able to guide his followers through tough situations. Disney’s Mulan is a good example of this. Mulan, along with the Chinese imperial army, was subjected to intense training. This training prepared them for their fight with the Huns. Mulan slowly but surely improved her military skills. Then she led the Chinese imperial army to victory. She showed them perseverance, bravery and a vision to success. Common sense seems to dictate that she led by example(st). Despite her status as a woman, she gained the army’s respect. Motivating them to fight even when there seemed to be no hope. 

Lastly, a good leader should always seek to improve. Self-reflection allows a leader to think objectively. They should determine the beneficial tactics from the detrimental ones. Leaders should also judge their followers objectively. This will improve their followers abilities. In addition, they will develop skills under the influence of their leader. A true leader only looks to service his followers. 

My conclusion, then, is that leadership depends on characteristics a leader possess(st). A leader should be emotionally intelligent. They should be able to effectively lead. Leaders should also always seek to improve.