Using this passage as evidence, develop a list of positive attributes (characteristics) you would hope to find in a highly effective steward. Use the observable attitudes and actions of the lazy servant as well. What did he fail to do? What did he do wrong and why? You can consider the opposite of these behaviors and attitudes to add to your list of positive attributes.
I believe a good steward is faithful, diligent, truthful and realizes that all really belongs to God. I also think that good stewards develop and work hard to improve themselves and develop people around them. To consult God on decisions made gives a content feeling of that fact that we never really have control over what is happening around us. Thus trusting God to lead us to work according to His will. Therefor good stewards are not lazy but continue developing. The lazy servant seemed to be rooted in fear thus influencing the outcome negatively.