84 / 100 Ways to Motivate Others A true leader does not try to become everybody's big buddy, although he or she values being upbeat and cheer- ful in communication. A true leader is not overly concerned with always be- ing liked, and is even willing to engage in very uncomfort- able conversations in the name of being straight and thorough. A true leader sees this aspect of leadership in very serious, adult terms, and does not try to downplay responsibility for leadership. True leaders do not try to form inappropriate private friendships with members of the team they are paid to lead. A true leader enjoys all the elements of accountability and responsibility and trans- forms performance measurement and management into an above-board business adventure.