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Wheel to Get Real

What Type Of Leader Are You?

By July 16, 2020April 17th, 2023No Comments

I’ve had a few conversations lately with clients on the importance of being an emotional leader.

This doesn’t mean making decisions with your emotions, but rather….

Connecting with others from a deeper, emotional place. 

The opposite is being a transactional leader – Expecting followers to be compliant and ensuring this through rewards and punishment. 

During times of crises, the distinction between emotional and transactional leadership feels like an important topic for discussion.

Here’s 10 characteristics for each….

TRANSACTIONAL LEADERSHIP EMOTIONAL LEADERSHIP
  1. Extrinsic Motivation
  1. Empathetic 
  1. Practicality
      2.   Self-Aware
  1. Resistant to Change
      3.   Heart-Centered
  1. Discourage Independent Thinking
      4.   Have Faith
  1. Rewards Performance
      5.   Curious
  1. Constrained Thinking
      6.   Clear on Needs
  1. Passive
      7.   Passionate
  1. Directive 
      8.   Optimistic 
  1. Emphasis On Structure
      9.   Adaptable
  1. Emphasis On Self-Interest
      10. In Service To Others

 This isn’t to say that all transactional leadership characteristics are bad. 

In some instances, it can be incredibly useful to be practical, and place an emphasis on structure. (I’m a Capricorn; this is how I often move through the world). 

However, when you look at both columns, #10 pretty much summarizes the difference between the two….

Transactional leaders place an emphasis on their own self-interests, while emotional leaders place an emphasis on being in service to others.

The question then becomes, “Where do you find fulfillment?” …..

Is it through the accumulation of victories and rewards? OR, supporting others to become the best version of themselves?  

I’d love to hear your thoughts..