Two assumptions that effective leaders make:

1.  They assume the level of authority necessary to do their job, unless it has been clearly defined otherwise.  The goal is to get the job done and effective leaders keep the goal in mind as they press forward.

2.  They lead in the area of their influence, recognizing they may not be able to influence those who are in leadership above them, they refuse to make excuses for their lack of direction. They choose instead to exercise leadership in every area for which they are responsible and through the areas of influence at their disposal.