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

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

In the "Under the Skin" podcast, you talk about Arrogance. The opposite of this is Humility. How do you view humility?
It is positive as long as humility does not turn into submissiveness. And the line can sometimes be very fine. For me, it is above all about an insight that leadership is not a title or a position and that it is therefore not self-evident. It must be earned. There is nothing sadder than formal leaders without leadership. Political leaders who never consider resigning should be watched carefully. But I hope of course that most quickly come to the conclusion that they have enough support to continue and see an opportunity to make a difference.