In scripture, we find the story of Moses ascending to the mount and returning with the Ten Commandments carved in stone. The children of Israel were to follow these commandments in order to be successful. If you are going to become an effective, successful leader, there are ten commandments you must carve into the tables of your heart.

1. Treat everyone with respect and dignity. If you expect respect, you must display respect. No successful leader demands respect – they earn it. The way a leader treats his people reflects on his character. If he does not respect them, he won’t have them for long and a leader without people is not a leader.
2. You must set the example for others to follow. Don’t expect your people to be on time if you are always running 30 minutes late. Leading by example is an important part of leadership. Don’t tell them how – show them how. If you want hardworking people, be a hard worker.
3. Become an active coach. Don’t be known only as the man on the sideline yelling at your players. An active leader is involved somewhat with his people. He is not only known as the man who gives orders, but also is known as the man who can give a hand when needed.
4. Be an honest leader. Honesty still is the best policy. If a leader is dishonest, his people will find out and then he will lose their trust. Dishonesty is not worth the price you must pay. Be honest in all your activities and in the long run, it will pay off.
5. Insisting on excellence. Don’t settle for second best. Don’t accept half complete job assignments – hold your people accountable. If something doesn’t get done to the best of their ability, let them know you appreciate their efforts, however, they can and will do better.
6. The leader must build group cohesiveness and pride. Team spirit is a must. It is amazing how things can be accomplished if a group will join together. Make each person feel just as important to the success of the project as anyone else.
7. Show confidence in your people. If they know you believe in them, then they will believe in themselves, thereby producing greater results. If you have no confidence in your people, they will lose confidence in you and you will eventually lose them. Believe in them and they will believe in you.
8. Maintain a strong sense of urgency. Know the importance of having the job done when it is due. Put the pressure on. The pressure will force concentrated efforts on their part, producing good work.
9. Be available to your people. If they need to talk, you need to be there for them. You need to be visible so they know you do more than just sit there, doing nothing, and taking all the credit.
10. Develop yourself. It is very important that you (the leader) never become status quo. The average man will be the one that works in the factory, not the one who owns the factory. Don’t ever quit; continue on to great success. Always try to be a little bit better. Being a leader isn’t an easy journey, but it is well worth it.