Lars, what is good leadership for you?
I usually call myself a pragmatic fundamentalist. It's the result that counts, knowing what you want but at the same time being prepared to compromise to get the support needed for real change. It's about finding the balance between listening and leading. It is dangerous to have leaders who do not listen. And it is deadly to have leaders who only listen, who are prisoners of their environment and circumstances.

Can you share an important lesson from your time as a leader that has decisively influenced your leadership style?
"The day you don't feel nervous, that's when you should be really worried. That's when you've probably lost the respect of those you represent". That's roughly how Odd Engström, who was then an experienced minister etc., put it when, as a young member of parliament, I complained that I felt a tingle in my stomach every time I went up to the parliamentary rostrum.
It made me a little calmer the next time I stepped up to the rostrum and, above all, it reminded me of what political leadership is all about, respect for those I represent. Yes, I still feel a tingle in my stomach when I speak in front of others. But I've learned to hide it most of the time, and I'm glad it's still there.

In the "Under the Skin" podcast, you talk about Pride. The counterpart to this is Humility. How do you see humility?
It's positive as long as humility doesn't turn into apathy. And the line can sometimes be a fine one. For me, it is above all about realizing that leadership is not a title or a position and that it is therefore not self-evident. It has to be earned. There is nothing sadder than formal leaders without leadership. Political leaders who never consider resigning should be carefully watched. But I hope, of course, that most will quickly conclude that they have enough support to continue and see an opportunity to make a difference.