and direct others through unique attributes. We imagine that someone is suited to leadership because of their charisma, drive, intelligence, training, or achievements. Instead, Friedman argued that the most vital attribute to lead, especially in anxious human environments and systems, was a non-anxious presence. Thus, the leader’s chief tool of influence is their presence. Think of it this way. You are in a room with a large group listening to a lecture given by officials. Halfway through the presentation,