Exemplary leadership is a key factor in achieving success, both at the individual and organizational level. While some people may believe that exceptional leadership skills are innate, research has shown that they can be developed through focused and structured effort. In his book "Peak," Anders Ericsson presents a comprehensive framework for achieving exceptional performance, which can be applied to leadership development. 

Here are 7 steps that anyone can take to develop exceptional leadership skills:

Step 1: Identify your specific goals and priorities

The first step in developing exceptional leadership skills is to identify your specific goals and priorities. This involves clarifying your vision and purpose, and setting clear and measurable goals that align with your values and passions. By having a clear sense of direction and purpose, you can focus your efforts on what is most important and avoid distractions.

Step 2: Seek out feedback and support

Effective leadership requires ongoing learning and development, which can be facilitated through regular feedback and support. Seek out mentors, coaches, or other trusted advisors who can provide constructive feedback and guidance, and who can help you to identify areas for improvement.

Step 3: Practice deliberate practice

Deliberate practice is a focused and structured approach to skill development, which involves setting specific goals, seeking out feedback, and engaging in repetitive and targeted practice. By focusing on specific skills and behaviors, and by practicing them deliberately and consistently, you can develop exceptional leadership skills over time.

Step 4: Build mental models of excellence

Mental models are cognitive structures that represent our understanding of how things work in the world. By building mental models of excellence, you can gain a deeper understanding of what effective leadership looks like, and how you can develop the skills and behaviors necessary to achieve it. Seek out role models, mentors, or other exemplars of effective leadership, and study their behavior and strategies.

Step 5: Build a strong support network

Effective leadership requires a strong support network, which can provide emotional, social, and practical support. Build relationships with colleagues, mentors, coaches, and other individuals who can provide support and encouragement, and who can help you to overcome challenges and obstacles.

Step 6: Cultivate a growth mindset

A growth mindset is the belief that one's abilities and intelligence can be developed through effort and persistence. By cultivating a growth mindset, you can overcome self-limiting beliefs and develop the resilience and perseverance necessary for exceptional leadership. Embrace challenges, seek out feedback, and view mistakes as opportunities for growth and learning.

Step 7: Embrace continuous learning and development

Effective leadership requires ongoing learning and development, which involves a commitment to lifelong learning and continuous improvement. Seek out opportunities for learning and growth, such as training programs, conferences, or workshops, and engage in self-directed learning through reading, writing, or other activities.

In conclusion, developing exceptional leadership skills requires a commitment to focused and structured effort, ongoing learning and development, and a supportive network of mentors and colleagues. By following these 7 steps, anyone can develop the skills and behaviors necessary for effective leadership, and achieve success both personally and professionally.

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