Great leadership is a habit made up of little things that you do daily. The titles and big decisions are important. However, it is how you turn up day in and day out that makes the difference. In case you want to become a leader who stands out, it is worth considering the daily habits of great leaders.

They listen with intention

Great leaders wait until it is their turn to talk. In addition, they listen. When you listen to a person intentionally, you are sending the message that you care about their views. You might not agree with them. But it does imply that you are willing to listen to them.

Get into the habit of:

• Setting your phone aside when having a conversation
• Asking clarifying questions
• Reflecting back on what was said.

Such little things build up trust and make individuals feel appreciated.

They stay curious

Growth-minded leaders are curious. You don’t know it all. The Reza Satchu family of entrepreneurs advises leaders to be open to learning, either by:

• Reading
• Listening to a podcast
• Taking on a mentor
• Listening to your own team.

Ask yourself every day:

• What did I learn today?

The practice will make you flexible constantly evolving world. And more significantly, it demonstrates to your team that learning is not a thing to be reserved for beginners. Everyone can learn, no matter their level.

They lead by example

The best habit, and perhaps the most powerful, is to model the behavior you desire to see. When you want to be punctual, then be punctual. Want honesty, be honest yourself. Leadership is not about expectations or words. It is an action.

People in your team will tend to become more committed and respectful followers when they see that there is consistency in what you say and what you do.

They practice gratitude

It is easy to get lost in what has not been fixed yet or what did not go well. However, effective leaders see improvements and show gratitude often. You can:

• Say a simple thank you to someone who did a great job
• Compliment someone who made an effort, even when the result was not ideal.

This means everything. Just create the habit of gratitude into your rhythm. This will strengthen the culture of people feeling noticed. It will encourage them to continue giving their best.

They reflect and reset

Great leaders make time to rest at the end of the day. They pose some questions: How did I present myself today? Did I act according to my values?

Thinking does not have to be a lengthy process. A few silent minutes or a few notes in a journal may be sufficient.

Checking in on yourself a few times a day will keep you out of autopilot mode. You remain conscious and mindful. You will be in a better position to guide with clarity the following day.

Final remarks

Leadership isn’t big things but small things. It is the everyday activities that make you who you are and how others perceive you.