Let's look at the ways in which housing co-op directors show principled leadership. Principled leaders

• put their duty to the co-op and the members before their own interests
• make the right decisions for the co-op, not necessarily the popular ones
• help chart a course for the co-op that is in keeping with its purposes and values
• work to win the trust and confidence of the membership
• have respect for the members, and others involved with the co-op
• deal in good faith with fellow directors and others in the co-op
• lead by example, making sure they follow the co-op's by-laws/rules and policies themselves.

Following these principles actually makes it easier to be a director because the experience will be more rewarding.

The Canadian Institute of Chartered Accountants has a very good publication on governance and leadership, 20 Questions Directors of Not-for-profit Organizations Should Ask about Governance. In it there is a list of personal qualities that are valuable for directors to have. It's worth taking a look at the very readable guide this list comes from. You can find it on the Chartered Accountants of Canada website at www.cica.ca.