Just because someone is a manager or boss does not make that person a leader. A leader is someone who others want to follow. Anyone can be a leader, even if they are not in a leadership role.
If you want to be a leader, act how you would want your leader to lead. Lead by example. Hold yourself to a higher standard, but don’t turn your nose up at those who don’t keep the same standards as yourself.
Be kind, but firm. Be honest and fair. Hold others accountable, but don’t forget to hold yourself accountable as well. A leader doesn’t make excuses.
Leaders should be approachable and generally have positive attitudes. Leaders should build up their teammates, not tear them down. They should have others follow them because they are respected, not feared.
A leader also knows how to clearly communicate the collective team goal so that everyone is aiming at the same target. A leader gives their team leeway on how to accomplish the mission, as long as they are playing within certain rules. They don’t micromanage.
These are just a few attributes of a leader. We should all be working on these attributes, because even if you don’t view yourself as a leader, others might.