No one knows for sure what qualities, attributes, or actions separate the kids on Santa’s Naughty or Nice lists. Do a few minor infractions decrease a child’s chances of being dubbed Nice, or is that status reserved only for those with spotless behavior records? Considering what I witnessed in my youth, and still see today, I’d say Santa is fairly lenient. Those placed on the dubious Naughty list, it seems, are primarily serious and repeat offenders. The bullies, braggers, liars, and chronically selfish. In other words: the DUDs.

In the adult world of business, DUD leaders certainly belong on Santa’s Naughty list. They fit the profile like a glove (or a big, red mitten). In contrast, WOW leaders deserve top billing on the Big Guy’s Nice list, going above and beyond not for themselves, but for others. They aren’t always perfect, and they don’t always get it right, but they embody the spirit of giving, caring, and humility that goes along with the Christmas season.

Were you a naughty or nice leader this year?

Those on Santa’s WOW list are:

• Honest
• Humble
• Grateful
• Communicative
• Authentic
• Patient
• Understanding
• Inspirational
• Motivational
• Positive
• Invested in their Team
• Respectful
• Empathetic
• Approachable
• Encouraging
• NICE

Those on Santa’s DUD list are:

• Dishonest
• Egotistical
• Entitled
• Uncommunicative
• Phony
• Judgmental
• Bullies
• Invested only in themselves
• Disrespectful
• Negative
• Uninspired
• Selfish
• Unapproachable
• Discouraging
• NAUGHTY

Like the proverbial Scrooge, DUD leaders selfishly hoard their successes and withhold all forms of gifts, compliments, or joy. They don’t care about anyone but themselves. Their hearts are as cold and coarse as the coal they’ll be getting in their stockings. Conversely, WOW leaders aren’t driven by the accolades or rewards they can personally acquire. The “gifts” placed under a WOW’s tree are the ones that truly matter. By helping their team grow, change, and advance their skill sets and achievements in a nurturing, authentic, and honest manner, they reap the rewards of mutual respect, admiration, and success. They win because everyone wins along with them.

This Christmas, as Santa’s checking his naughty or nice list, where will your name be? If you embody the true spirit of WOW leadership, it won’t matter what you receive on December 25th…because you already possess everything you need.

–Sheri Staak