I have come to understand and appreciate truly effective leaders. There are seminars on leadership, leading teams; leading through change…the list goes on. What kills me is how freely the word “leader” or “leadership” is used to describe anyone but a leader. You have heard it; “the school’s leadership is looking into…” or “the project team leader is seeking to understand…” The problem is, they don’t lead, they politicize or worse yet, do nothing. I do believe with commitment and having a great mentor, leaders can be developed. They are not born...they use their life expereinces to understand people and situations.
It is my opinion; a true leader does not desire nor seeks the recognition of being a leader. The best leaders I have had the pleasure to meet, know and work for were often times quiet and simply set a vision or direction and left the solution to the leader’s loyal team of experts to carry out the actions. A leader uses kind words, words of encouragement, seek unity, negotiates, assures the necessary resources are available to achieve the vision, demonstrates tolerance, understands the impacts of their decisions and connects with the people, customers and team.
Leaders simply get things done through example, respect for others and focusing on a vision.
Two of the best examples of highly effective leaders in my opinion are; Sir Ernest Shackleton (Feb 15, 1874 – Jan 5, 1922); the story of the Endurance and President Ronald Reagan (Feb 6, 1911 – June 5, 2004) in bringing an end to the Cold War.
I would encourage anyone interested in leadership to read “Shackleton’s Way” by Margot Morrell, Stephanie Capparell and Alexandra Shackleton. The book provides some great insight into a highly effective leader who overcame the odds and saved his crew from an almost certain death.
Leaders serve in the interest of all.
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