Leaders in whom we have the most confidence are objective (vs. subjective). They aren’t afraid of facts and don’t try to hide them. Leaders typically have four characteristics in common.

1. They spend time with people who don’t focus on the past. They discipline themselves to look forward, not back. They gather facts about “what is” vs. “what was.”

2. They look for trends. They differentiate between fads which are fleeting and developments that are likely to last. They listen to opinions but are much more interested in facts.

3. They are ready, willing and able to reexamine their biases. They associate with people who challenge them. They explore new alternatives. They seek new information and share it.

4. They are super-sensitive to “spin.” They recognize the ways politicians and others avoid issues where they are vulnerable and reverse answers to make them look good. They realize that those who use personal attacks usually have a weak case on the issues.