Last Weeks definition:
The act in which any individual who stands out amongst a group is able to socially influence the group in a common task or work ethic in order to accomplish something or inspire a change in that group. They posses qualities that enable them to inspire and motivate others; leaders better, not worsen the group they lead.
This weeks definition:
Leadership is the ability of a person to use a variety of qualities and leadership styles in order to influence and inspire a group in a common task. They are ethical people who use these styles to better the group. Additionally, leadership is the ability to not only live in the moment as leaders, but to see the larger picture.
Analysis:
My definition changed as I read more about various styles of leadership. I realized that not everyone has the intrinsic ability to be a good leader because they are unable to utilize many styles of leadership in order to make them successful leaders. The way a person directs a group is what makes or does not make them a leader. Additionally, the discussion of ethical vs. unethical inspired me to add ethics into the definition. The reading on "getting on the balcony" also influenced my definition. I see that it is important to both be in the moment as a leader, but also carry that greater perspective in order to see what's best for the group you're leading.
Citation:
Heiftz, R.A., & Linsky, M. (2002). "Get on the balcony." Leadership on the Line: Staying alive through the dangers of leading (pp. 51-74). Boston: Harvard Business School Press.
Goleman, D., Boyatzls, R., & McKee, A. (2002). "The leadership repertoire." Primal leadership: Learning to lead with emotional intelligence (pp.53-69). Boston: Harvard Business School Press.
Leave a comment