Leadership Series: What is Leadership?

So, what is leadership?

Well, that seems like an easy question but in truth, it’s hard to come to a clear cut answer. Some might say it means taking charge, others might say its organizing groups and still others might say it has nothing to do with authority at all.

So let’s start with what some “well-knowns” consider to be leadership:

“Leadership is the ability to get extraordinary achievement from ordinary people.” – Brian Tracy

“If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more, then you’re a leader.” – John Quincy Adams

“A leader is a dealer of hope.” – Napoleon Bonaparte

It seems as though this subject is less focused on status and authority than it is on influence and impact. Consider what Darren Hardy, former publisher of SUCCESS Magazine has to say about 20th vs 21st century leadership.

21st century leadership is…

no longer… economic competence, rather… emotional intelligence

no longer… control, rather… collaborate

no longer… financial capital, rather… human capital

no longer… hierarchies, rather… lead through networks

no longer… structures and spreadsheets, rather… meaning and purpose

no longer… techincal or financial expertise, rather… emotional and relational aptitude

no longer… developing followers, rather… developing leaders

As displayed in the image above, true leaders aren’t behind the group telling them where to go, but out in front, in the action, with them, showing them.

Let’s all make the commitment to be true leaders, with a focus on being “the initiative in an action; an example for others to follow (source).” If we do this, then we can become agents of change, action and making a real difference in our families, companies and communities.

Next post: VISION!