The words a leader speaks are important, of course. But how they're delivered can make all the difference, especially in tough times.

Leadership is the behavior each of us exerts when we take responsibility for our actions and their consequences.

From the hindsight of history George Washington seems larger than life, more statuesque than man. Too bad! Washington's greatness as a leader was courage under fire and persistence in the face of obstacles. Yet even he at times doubted himself. But he put those doubts aside and forged ahead, convinced of his noble purpose.

Leaders do not motivate per se. They create conditions for people to motivate themselves. They do it by communicating clearly, setting clear expectations, following through and recognizing performance.

Solution = Conflict + Collaboration

Three things a leader or manager should be thinking: What's happening? What's not happening? and What can I do to influence the outcome?

Leaders instill purpose through their words and their actions. Their communications demonstrate a commitment to vision and mission, but their behaviors underscore its real importance. What a leader does is far more important than what he or she says. People want to see action and help achieve results.