One of the most important decisions that a leader can make is regarding the quality of people that surround them, especially their inner circle of friends. An insecure leader will most likely surround themselves with “yes” friends who will kowtow to their whims, caprices and ideologies without resistance.
Secure leaders surround themselves with the type of people I call “Challengers”. These “Challengers” love the leader unconditionally, are also leaders in their own rights and are quick to challenge the leader’s thinking because they want the very best for the leader.
These “Challengers” are so secure in themselves that they don’t feel threatened by the leader’s success. They grow as the leader grows and shine as the leader shines. They buy into the vision of the leader but don’t buy into the concept of groupthink. The cherish their independent thinking and combine that with a strong desire for team based success and achievement! It takes time to find “Challengers” but most times, they gravitate to a leader who combines a solid character with a compelling vision!
The best way to find a Challenger is to become one!