Insecurity always shows up in a person’s life. It can be disguised, but it can’t be hidden. Insecure leaders, or people who aren’t secure in who they are personally or comfortable with their abilities, display some common characteristics.
Here are 7 traits you may see in an insecure leader:
1. Defensive towards any challenge
The insecure leader flares his or her insecurity when ideas or decisions made are challenged in any way. They remain protective of their position or performance.
2. Protective of personal information
The insecure leader keeps a safe distance from followers. Their transparency is limited to only what can be discovered by observation. When personal information is revealed, it’s always shared in the most positive light.
3. Always positions his or herself out front.
Insecure leaders assume all key assignments or anything that would give attention to the person completing them. They are careful not to give others the spotlight.
4. Limits other’s opportunities for advancement
The insecure leader wants to keep people under his or her control, so as to protect their position.
5. Refuses to handle delicate issues
Insecure leaders fear not being liked, so they often ignore the most difficult or awkward situations.
6. Makes everything a joke
One huge sign of an insecure leader is that they make a joke about everything. Joking is a coping mechanism used to bring attention and a false sense of being liked to the insecure leader.
7. Overly concerned about personal appearance
Some insecure leaders are never far from a mirror. They are overly conscious of their clothing. Afraid of not being in style or being accepted as hip or cool, they are constantly looking for the latest fashion trends or attempting to be cutting edge with the gadgets they carry.
Please understand, all of us have moments of insecurity. Leaders, especially if they want to be effective, must learn to recognize signs of insecurity, figure out the root causes of it, and attempt to limit that insecurity from affecting their leadership.
What other traits have you seen that indicate someone is an insecure leader?
