Three Minute Leadership: The Ten Truths About Leadership
To: The Great Leaders Who Have a Passion for Continuous Learning
In their book, The Truth About Leadership, James M. Kouzes and Barry Z. Posner share their ten truths about leadership. It is based on their interviews of thousands of leaders over thirty years of research.
They believe that despite changes in the context of leadership (e.g. technologies, globalization), “the content of leadership has not changed much at all. The fundamental behaviors, action, and practices of leaders have remained essentially the same….” They share the basic ten truths that have endured over the years.
- You make a difference.
- Credibility is the foundation of leadership.
- Values drive commitment– You need to know what you believe in.
- Focusing on the future sets leaders apart.
- You can’t do it alone.
- Trust rules.
- Challenge is the crucible for greatness.
- You either lead by example or you don’t lead at all.
- The best leaders are the best learners.
- Leadership is an affair of the heart. If you don’t love what you do – you won’t work hard enough to become great.
As great leaders read these truths, assuredly a smile of approbation comes to their face. They are the stuff from which greatness, professional and personal, is achieved – the beautiful guidelines for their being and doing in life.
And the starting point is found in truth # 1: You make a difference! This is the beginning, the moment of their realization that they bring something truly special and unique to the world and those whom they serve – their choice to make that difference.
Remember always the words of J.M. Barrie, playwright and author best known for the play Peter Pan: “The moment you doubt whether you can fly, you cease for ever to be able to do it.” Never doubt a moment in the beautiful gift that is you. Open your wings. You can and will fly to heights yet undreamed… because you make a difference.
Have a beautiful day and a magnificent week!!!
Mike
- Three Minute Leadership: Leadership… Success – It’s About Grit
- Leadership Junior Briana Glass in Shanghai, China! – Monthly Update