12 Habits to Transform Your Leadership

Hey there! Let’s talk about something BIG today: what makes a truly exceptional leader? Now, you might have heard the term “unicorn” thrown around when describing someone who seems extraordinary—someone who’s got that special something that makes them stand out from everyone else. But let’s cut through the fluff and get down to what it really means.

A unicorn isn’t just a mythical creature we see in fairy tales—it’s become a term for people who are truly exceptional in their field. These are the leaders who inspire others, create powerful results, and leave a lasting legacy. But here’s the kicker: being a unicorn isn’t just about being unique or lucky. It’s about cultivating specific habits that elevate you above the rest.

William Vanderbloemen’s book, Be the Unicorn: 12 Data-Driven Habits that Separate the Best Leaders from the Rest, is a guide to becoming that kind of leader. It breaks down the habits that set apart the top 1%—the habits that make someone not just good, but great.

So, what are these 12 habits, and how can they change your life? Let’s dive in!

1. Self-Awareness: Know Thyself

It all starts with understanding yourself—your strengths, your weaknesses, and how you come across to others. Self-awareness means you’re in tune with your emotions and know how to use them to your advantage. People trust leaders who are genuine, and being aware of who you are is the foundation of that trust. Want to connect better with your team? Start by reflecting on how you show up each day.

2. Vision: See What Others Don’t See

Great leaders don’t just look at what’s right in front of them—they look beyond to see what’s possible. Vanderbloemen emphasizes that having a clear, compelling vision of the future is crucial for rallying people around a cause. Are you clear about where you’re going? And can you communicate that vision in a way that excites others?

3. Emotional Intelligence: Manage Emotions, Master Relationships

Data shows that leaders with high emotional intelligence (EQ) outperform those with high IQ but low EQ. Emotional intelligence is about being able to manage your own emotions and understand the emotions of others. Leaders who master this can navigate difficult conversations, resolve conflicts, and build stronger teams.

4. Decision-Making: Be Decisive and Data-Driven

Unicorn leaders don’t make decisions based on whims—they leverage data to inform their choices while balancing it with intuition. Vanderbloemen found that top leaders have a system for making decisions quickly and confidently, minimizing doubt and maximizing impact. How can you improve your decision-making process today?

5. Communication: Clear, Concise, and Compelling

It’s not just what you say—it’s how you say it. Top leaders know that clear communication is the bridge between ideas and action. Are you able to articulate your thoughts in a way that’s easy to understand? Can you inspire people with your words? Start working on those skills today.

6. Accountability: Own It, Every Time

Taking responsibility, whether things go right or wrong, is a hallmark of a unicorn leader. Accountability builds trust and respect. When your team sees you owning both your successes and failures, they’ll be more likely to do the same.

7. Adaptability: Change Is Your Friend

If there’s one thing you can count on, it’s change. The best leaders don’t resist it—they embrace it. Being adaptable means being open to new ideas, being willing to pivot, and never getting too comfortable with the status quo.

8. Curiosity: Be a Lifelong Learner

Curiosity keeps you innovative and helps you stay ahead of the curve. Vanderbloemen’s research shows that the best leaders are always asking questions and looking for new ways to grow. When was the last time you tried something new or sought out a fresh perspective?

9. Resilience: Bounce Back Stronger

Life throws curveballs. Unicorn leaders have the grit to not just survive adversity but thrive because of it. Resilience is about getting back up when you’re knocked down and using setbacks as fuel to propel you forward.

10. Collaboration: The Best Ideas Come from Working Together

You don’t have to do it all alone. In fact, the best leaders know that great results come from leveraging the strengths of their teams. Are you creating an environment where everyone feels their contributions are valued?

11. Integrity: Say What You Mean and Mean What You Say

Integrity is about doing the right thing, even when no one is looking. It’s the cornerstone of trust and respect. Leaders who operate with integrity inspire loyalty and foster an environment where honesty and transparency thrive.

12. Well-Being: Protect Your Energy and Mental Health

If you’re running on empty, you can’t expect to be at your best. Top leaders prioritize their own well-being and that of their teams. This means setting boundaries, taking breaks, and creating a culture where it’s okay to unplug and recharge.

Turning These Habits into Your Secret Weapons

Now that you know the habits, it’s time to put them into practice. Becoming a unicorn leader is about more than just reading a list—it’s about actively developing these habits every day. How do you start? Pick one habit and go all-in on it for the next 30 days. Maybe you want to focus on communication or build resilience in the face of adversity. Whatever it is, take small, consistent steps. Don’t aim for perfection—aim for progress.

With these habits, you can transform your leadership and create a lasting impact. The world needs more exceptional leaders. Why not become one? Step up, lean in, and let’s see you shine!

Best,

Amber Trusik

Thank you for reading Motivational Monday! My mission every Monday morning is to provide you with content that will Help You Unlock Your Greatest Potential! I believe in you and your power to learn, grow, and succeed. Everyone has greatness within themselves to achieve their goals, and with the power of Motivational Monday, I want to help you unlock that greatness. Motivational Monday is my chance to chat with you over a cup of coffee. If you enjoy this content and want to help me grow, take a moment to buy me a coffee this morning at buymeacoffee.com/ambertrusik.

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