Do you have what it takes to be a leader? Not everyone can or should be a leader. It takes a lot of extra work and stress — everyone is looking to you for every important decision.

So what does it take to be an effective leader? Here are five key attributes.

1. Communication

Knowing not only how to talk but also how to listen is a great attribute to have as a leader. Listening to what each team member has to say will go a long way in establishing good relationships, and building good relationships is the best path for great communication.

2. Vision

Establishing a vision for your team will help the organization in having a better understanding of what to expect. Formulating a strategy helps to grow the vision.

Without a vision, a leader will end up accomplishing very little. This type of behavior will flow down throughout the organization, and others may not want to do the best. A vision along with a strategy will help the team have better alignment within the organization.

3. Inspiration

Leaders need to be able to grow their team. Individuals will thrive when a leader gives them opportunities to achieve beyond what they thought they could accomplish.

Inspiring others will also establish the next leaders for the organization. A leader's legacy should be the grooming of people to be future of the organization.

4. Accountability

Leaders need to be accountable not only to the team but also to themselves. Oftentimes, when leaders are not held accountable, this is where problems will occur. These problems can become bigger and bigger, and ultimately all parties will suffer.

By reviewing the mistakes they have made, leaders have an opportunity to reflect and correct what is necessary. This is an opportunity for growth, not only for the individual leader but also for the organization.

5. Culture

The culture the leader institutes is that leadership matters. It is not only how you do your job, but also how you are with others.

People make an organization. By developing a culture of respect, you show that the greatest assets within an organization are its people. A culture of awareness will help the organization utilize its talent base in a better manner.

Finally, leadership is not one-size-fits-all. Leaders must make a commitment not only to themselves, but also to others. Michael Hyatt, a leadership expert says it best: "Leadership is not about experience, education or talent. It's about choosing to lead."