What makes a good leader?
I’ve been reflecting lately on the idea that leadership isn’t about choosing one “right” trait, but rather the ability to hold seemingly opposite qualities in perfect tension.
We often think of leadership as a list of virtues, but in practice, it’s a delicate balancing act. To me, a good leader is someone who can navigate these dualities:
• Seriousness & Lightness: Doing deep, impactful work while maintaining the levity and humility that creates psychological safety.
• Listening & Directing: Being a “reader of the room” who tunes into the energy of the team, yet remains clear enough to get the core message across.
• Empathy & Accountability: Having the emotional intelligence to put yourself in someone else’s shoes, while still holding the line on expectations and results.
I’ve realized that whether I am navigating a complex professional project or a breakthrough moment in my personal life, the principle remains the same: Effective leadership flows from the ability to meet people where they are (tuning into their frequency) while still providing steady guidance toward a goal.
It’s about being “human” and “practical” at the same time.
Pro Mosaico Humano 