Leader (VME-M)

Leaders possess authentic idealism, passion, steady determination, and a cheerful willingness to engage the world around them. Aptly named, they don’t prefer to work toward their visions alone. Their energy tends to inspire and pull other people in to join them on their quests, even if they must convince others to move out of their comfort zones to do so.

These quests can vary widely. Leaders are interested in making the world a better place, but it doesn’t have to be something grandiose, like ending all poverty. It can also be providing a product or service that improves life for a group of people. They strive to make their contribution and help change things, going beyond just wishing and instead creating real visions upon which they can act.

Before taking action, though, Leaders take time to explore their relationships, feelings, and ideas to find their particular niche. Creating a long-term vision with a precise idea of how they should play their role is easy enough, but finding a navigable path to get there is another challenge entirely. However, once Leaders identify a course and set their minds to it, they work toward it wholeheartedly.

They’re open to input on this journey – they like to discuss their ideas and visions, sharing their thoughts and plans to see what others think of them. They also don’t mind joining in on someone else’s initiative or vision if they can move forward with compatible goals and values. When they do join, they’re very proactive and tend to become influential among their colleagues.

In others’ lives as well as their own, Leaders often try to make a difference beyond material success. Others may see a house or a good job as goals in themselves, but for Leaders, these things are oftentimes just stepping stones for getting closer to making their visions become realities. They’re usually guided by some deeper dream, making them inspiring to others, if sometimes also imposing in their passionate convictions.

As bold idealists, this type readily steps up and voices their disapproval, especially when someone acts in a way they believe is inappropriate. When someone profoundly disagrees with them, Leaders are inclined to enter into debates and discussions with the goal of changing minds. But even when in such debates Leaders tend to be considerate – mindful of their own value of respect.

Such authenticity and willingness to defend their views and beliefs – as well as the rights of other people – can make Leaders magnetic. Because they like to share their idealism out loud, Leaders are often seen as charismatic. They can speak with conviction and authority on subjects of human importance, inspiring and motivating others with their steady passion and big ideas. Leaders may serve as beacons for those who want to do more, but don’t yet know how.