If you were to ask
a handful of people what
they thought leadership was defined as, you would probably get several
different responses.
There isn’t one right definition
of
leadership. There are various leadership
theories out there, and when
you limit leadership to one definition, you also limit the value of
true leadership.
Leadership can be something very difficult
to describe
or explain. It is abstract. There isn’t a certain shape that
it takes, or there isn’t one specific direction.
Depending on
the leadership theory that you are talking about, one person could be
considered successful and the other a failure. Leadership theories are
founded on a person’s opinion.
There isn’t any
scientific test or measurement than determine if a person is a leader
or not. Leadership theories are considered a soft science because you
can’t create any experimental date to prove leadership.
Some
theories are based upon the idea that a leader is born that way.
Leadership is in their genes. Then there are other theories that say
that leaders are made.
This debate has continued to develop through
the
years. Regardless of the theory, any person who wants to be a leader
should take into account both of these theories.
No matter is a leader
is considered to be a born or made leader, a true leader needs to have
the passion and desire to lead. True leaders understand the fact that
they need to continually learn and develop the skills that will make
them successful.
True leaders also understand the importance
of
leadership being a process instead of a position. There are various
characteristics and qualities that a good leader needs to have.
Some of
them include knowing how to deal with mistakes, knowing how to deal
with people, respectful and service-oriented toward subordinates, and
hard-working. Subordinates usually like their leaders to show them how
to do things, not just tell them.
Leaders are normally expected to lead
by their example. Followers also appreciate honesty.
Regardless of the
leadership theories, most followers are leaders. The only thing that
differentiates them from current leaders is the fact that they
haven’t put their abilities to lead in practice.
Leadership
doesn’t necessarily equate with power. Leadership should be
looked at more as an influence to cause change.
Change in
followers’ behaviors, attitudes, and development. Learn more
about becoming a great leader at www.RaiseALeader.com
