dakota johnson and jamie dornan
Actors Dakota Johnson and Jamie Dornan (L) arrive for the screening of the movie 'Fifty Shades of Grey' at the 65th Berlinale International Film Festival in Berlin February 11, 2015 Reuters/ Stefanie Loos

The sadomasochist film “50 Shades of Grey” has been highly anticipated by fans of the novel and finally arrived on theatres on Valentine’s Day 2015. The movie has received mixed responses from fans and critics, but it can't be denied that there are lessons to be learned from the plot. Here are five leadership lessons that you can apply based on the movie.

1. Control

Since the first trailer was released, Christian Grey was featured as a highly successful billionaire who shared that his secret was to “exercise control in all things”. This leadership trait refers to making careful plans and preparations and knowing how to deal with various people and circumstances as the need arises. Effective management and control make a good leader.

2. Resilience

Fortune reported that in the film, Grey started out poor but was resilient enough to overcome the odds and turn himself into a billionaire by the age of 25. Leaders should exercise the same trait and understand that challenges and difficulty in life are always part of the process. Do not give up easily and you will experience long term success.

3. Passion

Be passionate about things, people and situations and use these to drive you to excel in the workplace. Christian Grey had other interests and was passionate about his activities outside the office. The important thing is that he keeps his work life and secretive personal life separate from each other so as not to impede in his professional ethics.

4. Look the part

Huffington Post reported that Grey was handsome, exquisite and well-dressed. In brief, he looked like a true leader inside and out. People will respect you more and have confidence in your abilities if you know how to dress properly and take responsibility in different tasks. Show confidence and exude positivism to draw people around you and follow.

5. Follow

Anastasia Steele took on the role of the masochist in the movie. She specifically stood out from all the potential women that Grey could have fallen in love with because she knew how to follow, be submissive and play by the rules. Know your limits and listen to what your followers actually have in mind and you will earn their attention and respect.

These leadership traits were featured in the movie and can also be applied in your own work life to achieve success. It may seem strange that it's compared to such a controversial movie, but it does make sense, right?

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