Refills!

Posted on February 20, 2010 by Ronald T. Brown, Ph.D.

“What we’ve discovered, and rediscovered, is that leadership isn’t the private reserve of a few charismatic men and women. It’s a process ordinary people use when they’re bringing forth the best from themselves and others. Liberate the leader in everyone, and extraordinary things happen.” — James M. Kouzes and Barry Z. Posner

Leadership is a verb, not a noun. Leadership is action, not a position. Leadership is defined by what we do, not the role we are in. Some people in “leadership roles” are excellent leaders. But too many are simply bosses, “snoopervisors,” bureaucrats, dictators, or simple babysitters. Conversely, others who have no formal leadership role in an organization often “lead” in very effective ways.

The process of becoming a leader is a journey of personal development - and though much of this journey involves finding our own way, there are several key “mugs” of development that need to be kept filled… These are:

* Choose Not to Lose. Learning to focus on the possibilities, not our problems is a key lesson of leadership. When faced with obstacles or failure, those who overcome adversity, and learn from those experiences, are the ones who consistently find success.

* Focus and Context. Our Focus and Context is shaped by three vital questions: Where am I going? (my vision); What do I believe in? (my principles and values) and; Why do I exist? (my purpose or mission).

* Responsibility For Choices. Leadership means accepting responsibility for our choices. Leaders realize that their choices, more than chance, determine their circumstances. They refuse to succumb to a victim mentality.

* Authenticity. Leadership isn’t just what we do, it’s founded on who we are. Genuine leadership comes from within. It’s authentic - based on honesty, integrity, and trust.

* Spirit and Meaning. Material success is never enough. Effective leaders take time to align what they do with their deepest desires, values, dreams and passions.

* Growing and Developing. The popular goals of security, stability, and predictability are

deadly

. The closer we get to these dangerous goals, the more our growth will be stunted. True and lasting security comes from a commitment to continual personal growth and development.

* Mobilizing and Energizing. Highly effective leaders boost the energy of others with their passion and appreciation. They engage people’s hearts as well as their minds. They get them involved, participating, and aligned with the higher vision and purposes of the organization.

The more the world changes, the more the principles of leadership stay the same. And they apply to all of us, no matter what role we play in society or organization.