Leadership Update

Last week's definition:
Leadership must be based on an understanding of yourself, the group you're leading, and the situation on hand. Knowing the problem can be the most important part of leading. If this problem is a complex ethical dilemma, you can begin to progress by knowing where you stand. A leader must lead "in close proximity to their base value" (Kidder).

This week's definition:
Leadership must be based on an understanding of yourself, the group you're leading , the situation on hand, and a self-awareness of your own strengths and needs. Knowing and communicating the problem reduces the stress placed on the leader, and as Heifetz (2009) states, even if this involves explaining the problem to someone outside the organization (2009).

Analysis:
This week's readings have shown that leaders must be aware of how leadership can take a toll on a leader who is too focused on defining himself by his role. A leader must take a step back and view the organization as a whole before throwing himself into a problem. By doing this, he can effectively handle problems and not shy away from difficulties.

Heifetz, R., Grashow, A., & Linsky, M. (2009). "Leadership in a (permanent) crisis." Harvard Business Review, 87(7), 62-69. Retrieved from http://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&db=keh&AN=41997981&site=ehost-live

Kidder, R. M. (2003). "Overview: The ethics of right vs. right." How Good People Make Tough Choices (pp. 13 - 29). New York: Simon & Schuster.