An opportunity to take a position of leadership in your business may have you feeling competent. Knowing that you can do a good job, you step into the new role with an air of authority, commanding respect with your confidence. By looking back to examples of effective leadership you\'ve seen in your life, you have models for behavior that may help you bypass many of the pitfalls of positions of power. Without a full understanding of the role you play, you may fall prey to allowing yourself to enjoy the benefits of leadership without taking on any of the responsibilities. But by thinking about your experience with leaders in your life, you can use their most effective methods to your benefit today.

The truth of leadership is that a leader has no power without the support of those they lead. They may be able to enjoy the illusion of command and authority for a time, but it will likely be short-lived. Positions of leadership, wherever they occur, are more like partnerships. Among the responsibilities of the role itself--whether a girl scout leader or a corporate officer--comes the fact that others learn from your example. Your support team deserves respect for the jobs they do, and as respected partners it is important to pay attention to their input. By being a good and competent leader today, you become a positive role model for those on your team and to all who are touched by your decisions.