I considered myself a leader as early as 8-years-old. I was on sports teams for over 10 years and learned how to not only work with others, but how to motivate them. Now, I consider myself a transformational leader. And you should strive to be one, too.

There are many different types of leadership styles, some of which include laissez-fare, authoritative, authoritarian and transformational. Here’s a little rundown of each style:

Laissez-faire leadership is not as effective because these types of leaders delegate tasks while being hands-off — there is minimal interference which leads to lower productivity.

Authoritative leadership is more effective — the leader mobilizes their followers toward a vision and lets them figure out the best way to accomplish their goals.

Authoritarian leadership is a less effective leadership style. These types of leaders dictate and decide which goals should be achieved. They have full control which leaves low autonomy within their followers.

Transformational leadership, according to leadership expert James McGregor Burns, is a process where “leaders and their followers raise one another to higher levels of morality and motivation." These types of leaders create an inspiring vision of the future and motivate their followers to do the same.

These are the people that transform groups and organizations and motivate them to put in 110 percent with everything they do. They are charismatic and serve as a role model for their followers. They help their followers develop their own leadership skills and leave plenty of room for autonomy.

Would you rather be told “You need to complete this task right now” without receiving any help, or would you rather have someone guide you and show you how to complete the task? When people are supported and motivated to do well, they perform better.

Leaders who challenge their followers to think outside the box and be creative accomplish much more than authoritarian leaders who just assign tasks. Professor of Leadership and Organizational Psychology, Ronald E Riggio, Ph.D. says that groups who are led by transformational leaders perform better and are more satisfied. Why is this?

Positivity. Inspiration. Empowerment.

Why should you strive to be a transformational leader?

You want to create a vision. You want to inspire others. You want to motivate people to be the best they can be.

According to management professional Robert Zeigler, transformational leaders are influential and persuasive — they are always willing to coach and mentor others to help them grow. These people are well respected and admired by others. They are approachable and have a positive energy that is infectious.

Strive to be a transformational leader.

Create. Inspire. Motivate.