Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. Dr. Tracy Brower writes about joy, community and the future of work. If you’ve ever worked for an inspirational leader, you know ...

It’s been said that character is what we do when we think no one is watching and how we treat people who can’t do us any good. As a careful observer of character for more than six decades, Robert L.

After 20+ years as a CEO, my definition of “leader” has evolved over time, but in this article, I share what I consider to be the essentials when it comes to being a positive, compassionate leader.