I second the being a jerk and making tough calls isn't the same thing. But when you are learning and younger the difference is less clear. I would think the S

I second the being a jerk and making tough calls isn't the same thing. But when you are learning and younger the difference is less clear. I would think the Steve Jobs of the 1980's while he was learning to lead was a bit more of an asshole then he was in his later years. That doesn't mean he still didn't push people etc but my bet is he learned and became less of a "jerk" without giving up on his visions. Mind you I know nothing specific other than what I have read about him. The truly amazing leaders are the ones who you will not only follow into the fire, but when you come out burned you are already signed up for the next round. They aren't abusive, jerks or anything of the sort. Unless they do this to you needlessly and repeatedly, then they are not even respectful of themselves. I personally have lived by this rule, I won't ask anyone to do something I am not willing to do or help them do. Doesn't mean I can do it necessarily, but I would do my best. For me, this generally removes people feeling squeezed, they may feel I am a pain sometimes, but they know I will do it too. I do my best to listen as well, but I do feel that people have taken advantage of me at times because I will generally give them the benefit of the doubt for a little to long.