Leadership as a quality is an ongoing adventure in itself. It is often believed that people are innately born with the ability to be a leader. In reality however, although people might have predetermined qualities that it takes to be a good leader, one cannot jump to the leader's hat at once, without adequately sharpening all their skill-sets and religiously reflecting upon their own approaches. A leader stands out of the flock as he is the one who leads the flock. However the most important quality that makes a good leader is his ability to acknowledge how he's not a superior but a part of the flock which he leads. 

Leaders are not made by success circumstances but made by the people who see the hope and light in them. This is another quality that leaders need to possess. As opposed to a boss who commands respect by inflicting fear, a leader wins over with love and mutual respect- they do not command respect but try and earn it from his flock. A good leader reflects the hope that the flock has upon him and thus focuses more on building healthy and hearty relationships. They do not fear to let loose and show their humane side, as opposed to a boss who is always trying to be uptight and detached. Along with the influence and respect, a good leader also becomes the source of empowerment for his flock. He is known for his ability to fill his workforce with more energy and zeal as opposed to draining their energy with negativity or a bad work-culture. A good leader leads its workforce to a direction, and works as a teacher or a mentor for them- they do not feel the need to exert their superiority all the time. 

The leader will ensure his trust upon his flock and their work abilities, and thus not only give them free space to create and brainstorm but also value their opinions and ideas in work. A boss however is less likely to enjoy work that is done in a way that is deviant from his instructions. Therefore a happy flock is another sign of a great leader. He will adequately show interest in his team's personal life and also ensure a comfortable working environment for each of them. Other qualities that a good leader demonstrates are flexibility, acceptance and positivity. He would never be strict about discipline but focus more on the aspect of nurturing by adequately showing empathy for the members in his workforce. The work environment under a good leader will show acceptance for differences and learn to work with diversity and cooperation.

Considering the bigger picture, a good leader will make sure that his team is not just a part of his work sphere but his mission and bigger vision. A boss might sometimes be insecure about letting out his future plans or even being open about his motto. A leader believes in walking together and would thus, rather make a team vision that drives everyone in the flock to perform. He will further ensure that credit and appreciation is given to those who deserve it and will not shy away from applauding good work. In case he doesn't like someone's work, he would discuss in private and talk about the room for improvement over criticizing bad work and being angry over it. Having patience is another virtue that a good leader demonstrates. Good problem solving skills and crisis management are other of his abilities. 

Apart from all these qualities, a great leader is made out of people's love and support. His voice influences because people trust his goodwill and motives. A work sphere becomes a positive and happy place for people when they have a leader that guides them and not a boss that employs them. A great leader doesn't make more followers but instead makes more leaders from his flock. In the famous words of Dolly Parton, "If your actions create a legacy that inspires others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more, then, you are an excellent leader." 

We need to understand that leadership is not about authority and a position of privilege but more of a certain caliber and a way to live.