Sunday, January 23, 2011

Article 1: Whats a Leader?

To construct a program to train the leaders of tomorrow is something I agree with but when you consider what it takes, one must ask what is leadership? This article defines it as such, "like scientific disciplines, for example- consist of a set of skills, methodologies, and ideas that can be taught." On page two of the article though it says that not everyone can be a leader. So then does this mean that every leadership program is flawed? I am aware that there are plenty different kinds of leaders in the world and that everyone has their own style, but what we define as a leader must be a definite thing I would imagine. To me, a leader must hold true to three-core values; consistent, understanding, and extremely motivated to the cause.

A consistent leader is someone who does not waiver on any issues, on any position on an issue, or promises one has made. To me leaders who contradict themselves are people that are indecisive. A leader needs to be able to make decisions and stick to them.

A leader must understand at all times. An insensitive leader is someone that is one minded and doesn’t consider other peoples views. Everyone has something to bring to the table in this world and if a leader doesn’t consider alternatives they can’t call themselves a good leader in my eyes.

A leader that is extremely motivated is a must. If one isn’t willing to do what it takes to get the job done then they are not a leader in my eyes or to be fair less of a leader. If you have to wake up 6 in the morning to get the job done then you should. The cause is why there is a leader so if the leader doesn’t have the motivation to accomplish the task then sooner or later the leader will fail his followers.

These qualities that I perceive as a leader are what I grew up around and saw from my father. You can’t teach these qualities in a program. You can surely tell people about them until they are blue in the face but to truly instill these values into someone’s life is something that takes years not just a few semesters.

1 comment:

  1. I appreciate your comment, "To me leaders who contradict themselves are people that are indecisive." Many times people do not truly examine what they believe in or support. It does not mean a leader cannot change his or her mind, but he or she should definitely spend some time to own and explain his or her stances.

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