As we approach our 200^th episode, we thought it might be fun to re-release our most popular five podcasts. Today’s episode is our second most listened to and watched episode: How to Lead Without Being Jerky.

Sometimes a leader has to . . . well . . . lead. Some situations call for swift action instead of collaborative consensus. And in those situations, leaders lead. In today’s episode we unpack how to lead confidently without being too full of yourself or running over the team you lead.

How can we lead confidently without being a jerk? We integrate confidence with humility.

1. Be open to constructive criticism from your team

God uses the well-timed feedback of friends (and sometimes even foes) to help us grow as leaders.

2. Express gratitude to your team

Gratitude is recognition that without my teammates, our organization will never reach its full potential.

3. Resist the temptation to take all the credit and place all the blame

Success is a team game. So is failure. When your organization is succeeding, the humbly confident leader is generous with praise toward the team. Conversely, when a teammate misses a deadline or turns in poor performance, the humbly confident leader resists the urge to quickly assign blame. He or she instead looks in the mirror first.

4. View setbacks as an opportunity to grow

Challenges with your team can become growth moments if handled with the proper blend of humility and confidence.