We can all be Leaders
What is your definition of a leader and how many definitions of leadership have you come across? The concept of leadership may vary depending on who you speak to or perhaps which author you are reading or listening to. It may also vary according to your background, your education, your career. Your culture, religion or belief system may also add to the many influencing factors.
One of my favourite definitions is a nifty little phrase from the Institute on Character:
‘Encouraging a group of which one is a member to get things done and at the same time maintain good relations within the group; organizing group activities and seeing that they happen.’
Whatever your definition, there is one universal component of leadership and that is quite simply the fact that we can all be leaders.
Working with the police has equip me with some pretty comprehensive insights on leadership. A supervisor can make or break your early years in policing; you can influence upwards in your early years in policing (making some pretty impactful changes), and yes, you can be successful, effective and respected in a Fast Track to Inspector programme with only two years experience. So, what is the ticket to an effective leader and why do some make it whilst others don’t? Consider your immediate thoughts when I said ‘make it’? I do not necessarily mean with promotion and rank. To ‘make it’ can be gaining the respect of others, bringing others with you. To become an active agent of change and to positively influence other to be the same.
Self awareness is key, as is passion, perseverance, grit and determination. However above all is a willingness to embrace your limitations and be prepared to make mistakes and learn from them. Oliver Burkeman and Angela Duckworth are incredibly useful authors for further exploration of these themes.
With authors in mind, Steven Covey associates leadership with those that find their voice and help others to find theirs. Value is seen as being derived from developing ones unique personal significance.
“Voice lies at the nexus of talent, passion, need and conscience. When anyone engages in work that taps into their talent and fuels their passion, and this rises out of a great need in the world that they feel drawn by conscience to meet, therein lies their voice in life.” – Covey, The 8th Habit
On a global scale, throughout history we have seen many leadership styles come into play. As we know, the ripples are vast. Consider the pivotal era we are now in, and when you find global affairs getting you down, stop and consider what you can do to make one person smile. Taking one small action can influence others. Taking one small action can make the world a better place.
Takeaway
What is your opinion on Coveys concept of leadership and where have you seen Goleman’s (below) different leadership styles play out? Have you ever considered Robin Ryde’s concept of a leadership shadow?
What is your idea of a good leader?
Who do you admire as a leader and why?
Who could you be as a leader?
Contact me to explore who you are or could be.
