Sometimes we all need a word of wisdom or a shot of inspiration. What better place to look for them than from the minds of those who have risen to the top of their fields? Politicians, philanthropists, innovators – all of them have insights to offer that can help shift our thinking into a higher gear. Here are some key pieces of advice from great leaders to get you into action as a leader …

“You are judged less by the mistakes you make than by how quickly and transparently you clean it up.” – Aria Finger, CEO, DoSomething.org.

Sometimes we fail to act because we are afraid of making mistakes. Well here’s a truth that you simply have to accept: you will make mistakes. Once you accept that you can carry on. Then once the mistake is made, admit it, correct it, keep the lesson, drop the sense of guilt or self-criticism and move forward.

“I was told that, in terms of the opportunities available to me, I was in the top 1% of human beings who had ever walked this planet, and that with such luck came great responsibility.” – Sony Kapoor, CEO, Managing Director, Re-Define.

When you realise that you have education, finance, ideas and other resources at hand, it becomes clear that you have a responsibility to use them, put them into action, build on them. It’s not about pressuring yourself; you owe it to yourself and the world to cultivate your talents and bring them to fruition. Once you understand that, you cannot fail to act.

“It’s hard to lead a cavalry charge if you think you look funny on a horse.” – Adlai Stevenson, U.S. diplomat.

One of the most important things a leader needs to do is lose any sense of self-consciousness. It holds back innovation and productivity. Look past yourself and focus on your goal.

“I start with the premise that the function of leadership is to produce more leaders, not more followers.” – Ralph Nader, U.S. politician

If there is one quote that sums up leadership, this would be it. Leadership is showing everyone around you that they are leaders too in their own particular ways. A boss commands followers, a leader coordinates and guides other leaders.