The starting point

In thinking about what it takes to lead others we have to be prepared to start at the beginning.  Contrary to some that may suggest you begin by casting a vision, I will say it begins with ourselves.  In order to lead others, we must be able to lead our own thoughts and direction, and do so from our core thinking.
A successful leader is one that begins with a passion for something or someone, and from there the motives are to help build on that passion to achieve a greater result.  Ken Blanchard in the wonderful book Lead Like Jesus states "...we are leading any time we influence the thinking or behavior of another person." The point to note is that we are influencing them, not controlling them.  That is why the best leaders are leading from a core thinking of those they lead and not the gain for themselves.

So it comes down to a heart issue.  Is your heart searching for power, or fame, or control, or for you to personally gain millions of dollars by leading?  If that is the case, it is possible you can achieve those desires, yet they will not sustain over time.  People will no longer be willing to be influenced by your leadership if the real vision is for your personal gain.

I challenge you to consider the real purpose that you have in being a leader.  Pull out the list we discussed and review each item.  Simply mark whether the end goal is for yourself, or for someone else.  Focus on those that for are others and that becomes your starting point.