Leadership is (fill in the blank). You can’t. Neither can I. 
Despite articles, books, blogs and opinions written about leadership, what is often left unsaid is that leadership is over-defined. Yes, there are characteristics that one might apply to a strong (or weak) leader. There are behaviors one can observe, mentors one can model, quotes one can use and examples one can site. I tend to agree with most of what I read about quality leadership and what that embodies.
Therefore, I would like to add a perspective on leadership by simplifying the definition to four dominant traits/characteristics/behaviors (fill in the blank!). Consider a compass. There are four primary directions: North, South, East and West. And just like leadership, even something as precise as a compass has varying ways of defining and discovering North: there is True North, magnetic North and grid North. No wonder I need GPS AND Mapquest to get me where I’m going!
So imagine that there are four primary elements of leadership, with varying degrees of direction. Just like I might be traveling North-East to get to my destination, one can also move their leadership needle along the compass.
The Leadership Compass:
Moral Direction
In order to be an effective leader, one must have a moral compass. Do the right thing because it’s the right thing to do. Ah, the challenge. Sometimes the right thing to do may have a negative impact on the bottom line. The right thing may involve confronting an employee who is not meeting the standards and expectations of your organization. The right thing may be to change a policy so it benefits both the consumer and the company. The right thing may be the difficult thing to do. Varying degrees of this compass point include: honesty, integrity, ethics, conscientiousness, virtuous, honorable, humane, compassionate and noble, to name a few. How does your moral compass impact your leadership decisions?
Inspirational Direction
Another trait I would place on my leadership compass is the ability to inspire others. Quality leaders, no matter their position within an organization typically make others want to do and be more. They serve as an example of possibilities and dreams and courage. Inspiring others at this level is a gift and a challenge. Varying degrees of this compass point include: leading by example, encouraging, intriguing, motivating, refreshing, dynamic, persuasive and uplifting, to name a few. What leader has made an inspirational impression on you?
Emotional Intelligence Direction
In Daniel Goleman’s article he discusses emotional intelligence as a quality of an effective leader. This is often ignored when it comes to the promotional processes of many organizations. Typically, one gets promoted into a leadership position because they are either highly effective at their current position, or they’ve been with the company for 78 years. Neither of these reasons have to do with leadership; rather, they apply to job knowledge and longevity. As Mr. Goleman points out, some varying degrees of emotional intelligence include: self-awareness, self-regulation, motivation, empathy and social skills. What are your guiding principles when choosing a leader within your organization?
Effective Communication Direction
There are multiple ideas, visions and expectations that a leader must communicate within their organization. The ability to do so effectively can mean the difference between: success or failure, motivation or discouragement, buy-in or complaints, collaboration or sabotage, understanding or confusion. In order to effectively communicate, a leader must have a handle on all other elements of their leadership compass. Some additional degrees one would find: open body language, approachability, willingness to accept and receive feedback, ability to see and verbalize the “big picture”, positive recognition, holding people accountable, recognizing effort, keeping people in the loop, authenticity and many more. What opportunities do you have to communicate more effectively?
So there you have it…my leadership compass. Each direction allows for further definition and corresponding behaviors. What would you add to this compass? What direction are you taking your organization????
Print This Post
{ 52 comments… read them below or add one }
Great article Jen
Thanks Ross! I appreciate that you took the time to read and comment on it!
Cheers, Jen
Jen,
Wow! I like what you did with this article. I wish I had thought of this.
I have a scar inside my left forearm. I got it while navigating a compass course in Boy Scouts. The correct path took us across a barbed wire fence. I slipped while crossing the fence and cut my arm. We finished the course, after applying first aid, and won the competition. I learned some valuable lessons that apply here.
Sometimes staying on the correct path can be a little uncomfortable or even painful
Sticking to the right direction pays off in the end
Well Done,
Marty
Hi Marty,
You bring up an excellent point learned in the real world! I absolutely agree that staying on the correct path is often much more challenging (and painful, as you mention) than going the easy way. At times it can cause people to become hurt (in the professional arena, this usually involves feelings…in your situation, ouch!), people may become unpopular and it can even cause dissent. However, you say it well, “sticking to the right direction pays off in the end”…if not for business reasons, then for reasons of conscience.
Cheers, Jen
Great article Jen! I really like the emphasis on moral decision making and emotional intelligence. I am frustrated by leaders who don’t often do the “right” thing…even in situations where there seems to be a clear right choice…..
Emotional intelligence is almost never considered. Ever know a leader who seemed to have none of this? We don’t value emotional intelligence near enough. Inspiration is also a key to great leadership….I really agree with this…..
I’d be interested in reading comments about leaders who are really inspiring. I, for one, find our current president inspiring…..anyone else want to weigh in?
Jenny Berman
Hi Jenny,
I absolutely agree with you and appreciate your comments. When a leader loses their moral compass, they lose everything. And so do their followers. Strong, effective leaders maintain their integrity despite opposition.
Interesting for you to notice that emotional intelligence is often not part of the equation for people in leadership roles. Yet it plays a tremendous part in determining their overall effectiveness and ability to connect with others.
I would also agree with you about Barack Obama. Despite a persons’ political proclivity, they would most likely agree that President Obama has a gift for inspiration. I would also consider his emotional intelligence to be one of his strongest traits as a leader.
I would love to hear other examples of leaders who have inspired, or who emulate the leadership compass as I’ve presented it.
Cheers to you! Jen
Oh, you’re good! How do you come up with this stuff? Like Marty stated, I wish I had come up with this.
I recently had an interesting conversation with a peer about this very subject. There’s 1001 articles, blogs, Websites, and expensive resources about leadership, all of which say something different. Which is the right “path”? As you stated, I don’t think that leadership can be put in a pretty box with a bow. It’s often defined by character and action, not position and title, wich I think “encompasses” (ha ha) what you have written about.
Dan Rockwell recently wrote a great blog post about followership as a means of identifying leadership. It is an interesting outlook on leadership from the perspective of why people follow. I think that this also fits into the emotional intelligence directive.
Thanks for the great post and keep ‘em coming!
Best, Jake
Hi Jake,
Thanks for the compliment! I’m glad this post was timely for you, as you just recently had a similar discussion with a colleague. You make a fantastic point that leadership is more about our actions than our title. Unfortunately, many people and organizations forget that critical point of the leadership equation.
Dan Rockwell has many insightful commentaries on leadership and I’m a huge fan. Thank you for including his information for our readers who may not be familiar with him yet. He is a great contributor to our site, with his comments and wisdom.
Cheers, Jen
Hi, Jen!
A really interesting model to begin with! If thesse are four compass points, it creates a problem in that you can’t move in all directions at once! As south is the opposite of north, what would be the opposite of inspirational leadership? Also, as SouthWest is comprised of South and West, is there a meeting place between your compass points, where something like Inspirational and Emotional Intelligence are combined, and is that direction the opposite of moral + effecitve communication?
Maybe a 3 or 4 Dimensional compass is needed! That would allow for Positive movement in the directions you’ve identified, and a corollary for each in the other direction.
So much to work with here – it’s great food for thought! Thanks!
Hi David,
Your points explain my challenge with directions in general! No wonder I get lost so easily.
I hadn’t thought of the directions as opposite. Interesting perspective. Rather, I was thinking of them as complimentary. To elaborate: if we stay in one place, we don’t go anywhere (now I’m starting to sound like Yogi Berra!). A well-rounded leader travels the entire compass and is able to incorporate all of it’s points along the way. Certain strengths or natural attributes may be more common in one leader than another; however, to be aware that there are other directions to explore is the strongest trait of all.
Thank you for pointing out another interpretation I hadn’t even considered. I appreciate your perspective and insight.
Cheers to you! Jen
Jen,
I think you are right on the mark with the points of your compass. The only thing I would add is that a Leader must also possess the vision necessary to know in which direction to point. As leaders, we all know that we must often alter our course, or change direction if you will, depending on the situation and/or individuals we are working with.
You’re insights are certainly on the mark. Thanks for providing ideas which generate thoughts among those of use reading your wonderful words.
Regards,
Z
Hi Z,
Thanks for your thoughts! You bring up an excellent point in regard to the necessity that a leader possess the vision in order to determine the direction. Without this vision, a leader may stay on a course that has little value or is no longer relevant to the situation. Additionally, your thoughts also lead me to think about getting stuck on an idea, thought, direction, course of action out of stubbornness. I’ve experienced this with leaders (and have been guilty of it myself). Part of leadership is a willingness to change our course when, as you put it, the situation or individuals require it.
Thanks for adding to the dialog and giving me another thought to ponder! Cheers, Jen
Yahoo! I shared the article with all my Leadership Development Participants. Something we can ask ourselves every morning. What direction am I taking my team? Thank you, Jen!
Hi Karen,
What a great way to inspire your leadership team each day! That’s a question that all leaders would benefit from asking on a daily basis.
Thank YOU! Cheers, Jen
Good read Jen! The only thing I would add is that one must have a desire to excel and face their worst fear to achieve a leadership role. If this can be embraced along with following the leadership compass, most will succeed as a true leader, even if they swing at a “curve” ball and miss. Eventually he/she is going to hit it out of the ballpark!
Leadership is taking the right step in the right direction, which is left! or is it North? :) cheers!
Jen,
This article is both solid and expansive. It is a great reminder of the critical elements and I especially like the inclusion of Emotional Intelligence.
On the point you make about effective communication, this is definitely the mechanism for making all the others work. I think it can be a special challenge for subject matter experts that rise up into leadership. Many experts assume others know what they know or fall into jargon that can leave people confused This “expert-itis”; can be a leadership killer.
I share here another post on leader communication that can make or break the development of a team.
http://www.katenasser.com/team-building-this-twist-on-trust-destroys-best-teamwork;A Team Communication Story, Lesson, & Call to Action
Many thanks for your article and I will definitely RT on Twitter.
Kate
Hi Mark,
Great point about facing fears as a leader! Again, a thought I hadn’t considered, yet believe to be quite valid and important. You further the point by using the analogy of a “swing and a miss”…if we do not face our fears, we will never step up to the plate and realize our potential.
By the way, when in doubt, face left! Cheers to you, Jen
Hi Kate,
Ha! I love it…”expert-itis”. You bring up a point that resonates with me: the subject matter expert. I think we’ve all answered to a leader who has risen through the ranks as a result of their knowledge rather than leadership skills. And thus your connection to ineffective communication. This usually turns out to be frustrating for the leader and those following.
Not only does the blog post that you included have some fantastic points, your site is a fantastic resource for others to check out! http://katenasser.com/
Thanks for commenting and adding value! Cheers, Jen
Thanks Jen I look forward to more exchanges with you! .. Kate
FYI: I tried using the HTML tags in the above post and they did not work the way they do on my Wordpress blog. Perhaps there are different rules in your software. I welcome any instruction or tips from you or others on how to use the HTML tags here.
Hi Kate,
Let’s just say, I would also welcome any feedback related to any technology! I copy and pasted your site address, although I could have done the same (I think) for the blog post. I’ll ask our site host about it. He’s a whiz at this whole computer-thing-a-ma-jig! : )
Jen
I’m testing the HTML here. Can I make a link to http://www.thenextwave.biz
can I give something italics?
Make it bold?
Jen, isn’t it interesting that when you write a post “simplifying” leadership, so many people comment to add more? One quick question, how do you define “right”? (I must admit, I don’t think that’s a short post either.)
I do agree that we over-complicate much of this, but instead of trying to do it all at once, why not suggest to our friends and readers that they pick something that resonates with them and focus on it. Like my golf swing, there is so much to improve. If I try to remember where my head and elbow and feet and weight and focus should be, I’ll miss the ball. Rather than try to do it all at once, why not just find one thing and focus on that. Also, rather than argue about what others should or shouldn’t be improving, let’s each take responsibility for processing and acting on something that we read. This isn’t a guilt trip. I’m not suggesting that we must find something to improve every day or every week. But when we see something that resonates with us, let’s act. We too easily judge ourselves by our intention (to act) rather than the actual results. If we called ourselves on that and chose to act on something, we’d definitely improve. Just a thought.
So, for me, I am taking action on my “right.” I’m meeting with some friends to help me find the “right” thing for me to focus on as I consider the impact I want to make as a leader. And I may do a post on the idea in the previous paragraph too!
Mike…
Hi Mike,
Wow! Some excellent points to ponder. I would like to address your question, “what is right“? (while agreeing that it could be a post unto itself). The word “right” tends to become ambiguous when used too often. When I speak of right, I’m usually connecting it to my ideals and ideas of social justice, ethical behavior and morality. However, understandably others have different ideas of even those concepts. I am intrigued by your approach to the word “right”. There are times that the concept applies solely to the individual, which is partially your definition in your closing paragraph. I would agree that we would all be better off working on ourselves rather than judging others; discovering our own path to “right”; picking our own area to develop in order to live our fullest lives. I also believe we have a moral obligation to consider others in this process. And that is where “right” falls for me. A combination of doing right by myself and others. Being an enthusiastic fan of your approach and work, I would guess that you are a person that strives to do “right” by others utilizing my definition (ideals of social justice, ethics and morality). That seems to be consistent with what I know about you.
I fully appreciate your analogy to your golf swing. It’s kind of like this post…sometimes, when we over-think a behavior or concept, it takes away from the area we might improve or do well. That was my point in writing the post. The literature on leadership is overwhelming and tends to obscure our focus. My idea with the compass is to remind myself that there are varying degrees and approaches to leadership. Sometimes my focus will be moved in another direction, as needs present themselves (as mentioned in a previous comment by Christopher Zaucha).
In the end, the important element is awareness: the decisions I make (not my intentions, as you so wisely suggested) will lead me in a certain direction. I’m responsible for the direction I take my leadership. I’m responsible, for the most part, the direction I take my life.
Mike, thank you so much for adding to this dialog and getting me to think. Cheers, Jen
Jen – You’ve had some true experts weigh in, and I feel a bit outclassed.
David Kasprzak raises a question about the four compass directions, and it’s a good one. I’d point out, however, that our travel to a destination is rarely in a perfectly straight line—due north, for example. We navigate through towns and around natural obstacles as a matter of course. My own daily trip to work, southeast of where I live, starts out heading almost due west to take me around the top of a large bay. Then I turn to head more directly to the island where I work, heading a little south of east, a little north of west, and generally mixing and matching directions that get me where I’m going. Likewise, leaders often must navigate through many phases of a journey that is not only theirs, but belongs to their goal and their followers. All points of the compass are—or may be—included. Sailboats tack in various directions, often sailing almost directly away from their destination, to remain most efficient in the wind.
I do find it interesting that we often refer to someone’s “moral compass,” and I think that Moral Direction is so fundamental that it might almost be likened to the force of magnetism that powers the compass in the first place. But it is certainly a valid and important component of leadership.
It is very good that you’ve included Emotional Intelligence as one of the compass points. (It’s my own Achilles Heel.) Great leaders I have known have had heaping amounts of EI, and effortlessly (it seems) navigated through the treacherous waters of opinion and psyche.
As for Effective Communication, I can hardly think of leadership without thinking of the power of “getting the point across,” sometimes in the most subtle and unexpected ways.
You’re on to something here, and appreciate the opportunity to become part of the conversation. Thank you – Roy
Oh Roy, you will never be outclassed. It’s an honor that you’ve joined the dialog.
As I read your first paragraph, I felt as though I were reading a great novel…one that would take me on a journey and lead me to discoveries about myself and the world around me. You have a gift for communicating ideas, creating visions and sparking emotions simultaneously. The comparison you so eloquently communicated between your drive to work and ones’ navigation through leadership is without compare.
I personally adore the fact that you’ve likened the Moral Direction to “the force of magnetism that powers the compass in the first place.” My intention of starting with the Moral Direction dominates my beliefs of what it takes to be an effective leader. Without that “force of magnetism” the compass is useless. Throughout history, many a leader has possessed the qualities that make their way into the leadership books…yet they’ve lacked the moral direction and caused great harm to humanity.
Once again, thank you for your generous wisdom and for shining a brighter light on leadership and all of it’s potential. You make the world a better place. Peace, Jen
Jenn – The compass works well in leadership and in life. I think one of my favorite leadership scholars would applaud you for identifying the moral point of the compass first. James MacGregor Burns, who was among the first to write about transformational leadership, stated that such leaders raise the moral aspirations of their followers. I believe the leader, in turn, has his/her moral aspirations uplifted as well. Recent events in large corporations and whole industries – Financial, BP, and others – are a reminder of the HUGE impact when leaders are without a moral compass or are use one that’s broken. Kudos to you for naming this compass point.
Hi Anne,
Thank you. Your discussion of a leaders moral compass raising the moral aspirations of their followers interests me. I hadn’t considered the idea. And taking it a step further as you do, how powerful that it uplifts the leaders moral aspirations further. What an inspirational idea!
I commend you for mentioning the recent events that have plagued our society and caused great harm to individuals, the environment and beyond. Unfortunately, these are minor in comparison to other leaders throughout history who have acted without a moral compass. They also serve as substantial lessons of the importance of keeping the leadership dialog alive, holding leaders accountable and working to create well-rounded leaders for the future.
Your contribution to this dialog is exceptional. I appreciate your insight. Cheers, Jen
Hi Jen!
Great post here. I think you hit the nail right on the head. Do the right thing because it’s the right thing to do. We all learned this when we were children, our parents made sure we understood the concept of the right things. Why then, does it seem so many people are so quick to dismiss it when it comes to the pursuit of the almighty dollar?
All of these four compass points are necessary and having / not having one will effect the entire course of your business — how would one inspire if one has no moral direction, for example. Awesome info!
Hi Maranda,
Thank you for your wise reminder: we learned the basics of right and wrong as children! And if it was not taught at home, most had a teacher, mentor, coach, significant adult in their life to model the behaviors. It’s frightening to know that some people (not just leaders) will abandon their moral judgment for money.
I do think one can inspire without moral direction. Unfortunately, it’s the type of inspiration the world could do without. There are examples in history (Hitler, Pol Pot, Charles Manson, to name a very few) who were able to influence others despite their lack of morality. However, your point is well taken.
Thank you for adding your wisdom to the discussion! Cheers, Jen
Hi Jen:
I am impressed with your methodical approach to leadership (which, unfortunately, is a rare trait in today’s world). I am an author / speaker on the subject of jobs and job creation – and after spending 4 months trying to assist the people in Detroit (30+ unemployment rate) – the #1 issue to solving Detroit’s problems (And most of the country’s challenges, as well) is LACK VISION. To me, being a visionary is the most important component to leadership… to see and believe in a better way of life / doing things that no one else has yet thought of (like abolishing slavery). You asked for feedback – and to me (if this were my model), VISION is so important, it needs to be a north, south, east or west… but hey, that’s just my 2 cents J.
Warm regards,
Jay Block
Best Selling McGraw Hill Author: 101 Best Ways to Land a Job in Troubled Times
Hi Jay,
I am honored that you read the post and took the time to offer your feedback. I was remiss in not mentioning a leaders vision. Another astute reader mentioned that same quality. I am originally from Detroit, and am saddened by it’s current plight. I’ll be in Novi next week, working with a client, and already know I’ll feel sentimental, tender and nostalgic about my upbringing and fond memories.
Your comment, “…to see and believe in a better way of life / doing things that no one else has yet thought of (like abolishing slavery)” illuminates the need for a visionary leader. Very powerful.
I’m grateful for people like you who challenge the status quo and work to hold leaders accountable for their decisions and actions. In order for change to occur people must have the courage to address the problem and the leaders/people who contribute to it.
To read more about what Jay Block is doing, check out: http://www.jayblock.com/blog/
Thanks again for putting your vision, courage and wisdom into action by challenging the status quo. Bravo to you! Cheers, Jen
Jen – would be happy to try and be of service. The following observations and comments are based upon my leadership coaching experience.
Leadership is a combination of authenticity and service. Being who you truly are, as an individual or an organization, while looking for opportunities to offer your authenticity to others in service.
Our moral compass strengthens as chaos is reduced in the process of becoming more authentic. Becoming a more inspirational leader is the natural result of our authenticity and service. Emotional intelligence (awareness) is developed from the action we take moving through fears, habits and perceptions toward our desired results. How we communicate with others relates to our authenticity as a leader.
Jen, I realize that I have just scratched the surface of you questions with these responses and would be happy to discuss in detail if you are interested. Thank you for your email.
Creating Business Cultures Embracing Continuous Change … https://www.box.net/shared/du3pabmr15
Master of Business Leadership … https://www.box.net/shared/zchult9myx
Warm regards, Phil
Phil Johnson, MBL Founder http://videobio.com/pjohnson
Toronto, Canada Bus: 905-272-5690 Cell: 416-729-7445
MBLCoach@MasterofBusinessLeadership.com
LinkedIn http://ca.linkedin.com/in/executivecoach
Skype: MBLCoach Twitter: PhilJohnson_MBL
Hi Phil,
I am honored that you took the time to read, then share your thoughts about my post. Your insight is incredible! I love your mention of authenticity while keeping it in the context of service to others. In my experience, leaders sometimes lose their authenticity when they replace service to others with serving the bureaucracy. A thought I’d not considered adding to my post until reading your compelling response.
Your thoughts are clearly well considered. So many will learn from your perspective, as I did. Leadership is a passion of mine, and I am always striving to learn and grow in this arena. I also feel a moral obligation to learn and grow as I work with the leadership of many organizations. I take this topic very seriously.
I appreciate any further insight you’d like to share, and I’ll research the links you’ve provided. All the best, Jen
Jen,
Love your post. As a fellow blogger, finding a great metaphor opens a readers mind and you hit a home run here. Simplicity rocks!
I’ve been mulling over the essential qualities of leadership.
For what it’s worth, I’ll add passion to the list. Passion is the gas in the tank that makes everything work.
On a personal note. You know I’m a rookie blogger. To be mentioned by you and Jake in your comments above is an incredible honor. I’m humbled and encouraged at the same time.
You have my regards,
Leadership Freak
Dan Rockwell
Jen, if I may be so bold, it seems to me there truly IS an answer for your opening statement, “Leadership is (fill in the blank).” More on that later.
Is leadership something we seek, something we do intentionally? Is leadership a place waiting for us? Many, it seems, have the impression leadership is attained, often at a great price. Like ascending Mount Everest, leadership often is looked upon as a great quest, reserved for the few who possess the courage and stamina to take those first fateful steps. Another school of thought looks at leadership as a journey seeking a destination to be reached by a blessed few who somehow become demigods in their own mind, expecting others to bow down at the feet of their accomplishment. Truth be known, I suspect leadership has nothing to do with up, or down. It has nothing to do with a climb, especially one involving the backs of those purportedly served. Nor do I see it as a journey. You see, leadership is not positional (longitudinal or autocratic); it’s relative.
Let me explain. Can there be a leader if no one is following, with or without a compass? No. Leadership demands community. As such, leading is not static, because life is not static. Leading is energy; it is flow. Leading is emotion, full tilt. Leading is electrifying. Leading is moving; it is intense. It is also born, according to Marian Anderson, “out of the understanding of the needs of those who would be affected by it.” Robert Greenleaf suggests, “the only authority deserving one’s allegiance is that which is freely and knowingly granted by the led to the leader in response to, and in proportion to, the clearly evident servant stature of the leader.”
From where I stand, the true leader holds not the compass; instead, she holds the hearts (and esteem) of those who choose to follow. In short, leadership gives people, not power, a place to rest. As such, the people hold the compass!
Across the vast sea of time, great leaders, in all cultures, emerge first as servants; each is thrust into a leadership role because the people believe them capable of meeting their needs. Martin Luther King, Jr, for example, did not set out as a youth to someday ‘lead’ any movement, much less the Civil Rights movement; his ‘vision’ first and foremost was to become a Baptist preacher like his dad. It was only in his last years he broadened his vision to address the plight of all who suffer unjustly—most notably, the poor of our land (see, Where Do We Go From Here: Chaos or Community?). Indeed, the Civil Rights movement was never his vision to share; it belonged to the people. They simply needed someone to help them realize it. Certainly, Martin Luther King, Jr, like many of his day, had a dream. But it seems to me his dream had precious little to do with demanding rights; instead, it had everything to do with knowing what to expect now that those rights were assured.
Servant leaders in this day and age, I would offer, stand in much the same place Dr King stood. They embrace an attitude of service that is no stranger to challenge and controversy; as such, they often take an inconvenient stand because they understand “the means we use must be as pure as the ends we seek.” Herein, we find a fork in the road. Does the servant leader concern herself with making all sides happy and content, or does she go out of her way, perhaps in shackles, to do what’s right for those who languish at the hands of the affluent, the powerful? For a servant leader, the choice is simple, and straight-forward. So, what motivates one to face the prospect of negative consequences for doing what’s right?
In a sense, we can say ‘leadership’ makes it possible. True, authentic leaders, after all, must possess an incredible amount of courage and self-awareness. They must be very comfortable with who they are. So much so, they do not delight in their own success but, rather, in the successes of those who have chosen to be counted among them. True leaders spend their life behind and beneath those who have chosen them to lead—all the time busy lifting others within reach of dreams of their own.
Even so, we are left with the inevitable question, ‘What is leadership?’
If we were to examine all leaders we would willingly follow, we would find in their midst a common thread. Without exception, these leaders give fully and completely expecting nothing in return. They understand the serving nature of leadership. And they understand something else:
Leadership—true leadership—is love.
Love has everything to do with leadership. When you boil it all down, every leader you want to follow generously seasons what they do with love because they understand leadership without love is not leadership at all. Really. They lead because they exude a love for others. They lead because they love what they do. They lead because they love what you do, and what you help others do. They lead … because leading loves.
Thank you, Jen, for sharing your wonderful thoughts on this important topic, and for giving me this opportunity to join your conversation. I realize my thoughts and notions may cut across grain from time to time, but they are, simply, just one man’s humble view.
I do so appreciate you! Hugs.
Hi Dan,
What a great addition! Passionate leaders tend to be dynamic and influential. What’s more, it’s always compelling to follow someone who has a strong belief in what they’re doing and the direction they’re taking.
You are a talented blogger who has all of my respect! I admire that you are able to keep your blogs to a certain word count (clearly, not a gift of mine!). You are able to take abstract concepts come to life.
With admiration, Jen
Hi Jack,
Thank you for such a thoughtful response! I always appreciate your perspective and wish more shared your vision (of servant leadership and love). I do agree with your points, with one caveat: what about the leaders of history who have led or stood for other purposes (greed, racism, anti-Semitism, etc)? They still possessed the characteristics of a leader found in any, if not all writings on the topic of leadership. They loved their greed or, ironically their hatred above all else. And people willingly followed them. And eventually, they handed the compass to the people…and in the hands of the people, the compass pointed in the same direction as the original leader. So what do we make of that?
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. may have initially been a reluctant leader. However, because of other leaders and followers (both formal and informal), he did choose to lead. And his leadership had a clear moral direction. The Civil Rights movement was his vision to share, along with all others oppressed by hatred and racism, along with all others disgusted by hatred and racism. And Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. had everything to do with demanding rights! At the time of his leadership and murder, those rights were not assured…not even close. If he were simply communicating expectations of rights that had already been assured, he would not have been murdered.
Yes, his dream was eloquently stated and is frequently repeated. You and I agree: he was willing to risk all for the lives of others. Pure servant leadership. Ah, if that were the only type of leader. Yet that is not the only type of leader.
When people say that someone’s behavior is evil, yet they as a person are not evil, I disagree. Hitler is an example of evil on earth. He was an amazing leader by most standards…except the ones that truly count. Did he say as a child, “I will grow up to kill people.” My guess is no. Just as MLK, Jr did not say as a child “I will help lead the Civil Rights movement.”
In 1925, Hitler introduced the world to Mein Kamph. 10 years later he writes the Nuremberg Laws. And in 1938, the Holocaust begins. Hitler was a leader. That is an undeniable fact. Handing the compass over to others who believe in immoral acts is a form of leadership. Hate is part of leadership. Greed is a part of leadership. Denial is a part of leadership.
Therefore, I submit the compass. The moral direction must be the guiding force of the compass in order to lead from a place of love, integrity, social justice, ethics…in order to be a servant leader.
Everyone makes decisions in their life’s journey. The type of leader one becomes is a decision. The type of leader one follows is equally a decision. There are many great leaders throughout history…their legacy is a result of the compass they carried.
Jack, you are an example and messenger of servant leadership. Thankfully, there are many others like you, today and throughout history. Yet one cannot deny that there is a guiding force, a compass if you will, that all leaders carry within. My hope is that more leaders have a compass that is first and foremost guided by morality.
Thank you again for your wisdom, perspective and generous heart. Peace, Jen
Jen, you’ve certainly generated an interesting discussion. Much to read.
Regarding “right” – I do believe in an absolute right. I don’t feel qualified to define it for a number of reasons, but the primary one is that I didn’t create me. My “right” is the one that says the best we can do is love others and the greatest love is laying down your life for your friends. I think we naturally agree that service to others is generally “right” in some degree, because it was created into us.
However most people today feel they are qualified to define “their” own right and wrong. So rather than argue with words, I choose to present my side of the discussion with my life. Unfortunately, even in that I will fall short, but keep trying.
Great discussion. Mike…
Hi Mike,
What a fabulous way to “define right”! I think you just did! There is an absolute right, and an individual definition of right. I like how you verbalized that concept.
I agree, it often becomes a matter of semantics rather than decisions and behaviors. That’s why I was inspired by your previous comment, also. Understanding the larger, absolute right is critical… But how you choose to apply those ideals to your own life is an individual decision. I love your statement: …” I choose to present my side of the discussion with my life.” Brilliant. Humble. Beautiful.
I’m with you…always striving. Thank you for continuing to add to the discussion. I value your opinions and thoughts. Peace to you, Jen
Jen, I agree with the primary elements of leadership that you have defined. I was recently was seeing this video post by Vineet Nayar, as a leader leading 55000 employees his goal is to create an organisation which is self governing. You might be interested to see this video post. http://www.vineetnayar.com/gen-y-and-leadership-in-the-organisation/
Hi Renata,
Thank you so much for sharing! A self-governing organization of 55,000 employees?! That’s quite an admirable task.
I agree with much of what Mr. Nayar is saying. There is a need for a more progressive approach to leadership, a newer model that reflects the changes in the world. I would challenge however his observation on Gen Y. The idea that they are multi-taskers, or for that matter, that anyone is a multi-tasker is a bit of a misnomer. This leads to his belief that Gen Y possesses “unstructured thinking” and will not fit within an organizational model that does not meet their specific needs. This approach to Gen Y disregards their flexibility and does not account for other generations who are equally well-versed in similar technology he ascribes to Gen Y. Though not the complete point of his video, it’s an important topic nonetheless.
I admire his overall thoughts on leadership and will be interested in learning more. Thank you for adding to the dialog and presenting another approach to leadership. Cheers, Jen
I am not trying to be cute here, but moral compass? Some of the greatess leaders had no moral compass – Hitler, Stalin or most recently Uncle Bernie (Madoff). Only in an ideal world.
Hi Jim,
Thank you for pointing that out…however, if you read the comments you will see that your point has been addressed by me. My entire point is that leadership has been defined a million times over, and often the most heinous of leaders fit the definition (as you point out). Therefore, in order to address current definitions of leadership (as many scholars beyond my intellect have done), I challenge it. I say you are NOT a leader without a moral compass. Or at the least, you choose to lead without morality. And many choose to follow.
I would propose redefining leadership. Challenging the status quo. Vocalizing outrage. Holding people accountable. Reminding the world of atrocities committed in the name of leadership.
I invite you to read some of the comments and see if they do not address, to some degree, your question of my inclusion of a moral definition within the leadership compass.
Thank you for adding to the discussion and I would love to hear your thoughts once you’ve read more! Cheers, Jen
Jen: Thank you the learning experience. I was remiss when I made my comment in that I did not read carefully all the above comments, a discipline I will now practice as I further engage on topics of interest. Interesting points re: moral compass. Personally, as the leader of my tribe, I subscribe to establishing a compass that embodies authenticity. I value authenticity, but unfortunately I personally experience a lot of dross thanks to being active online and then read about a lot of corruption in governments, business, etc. However, I will not lower my standards. I appreciate you challenging us to redefine leadership and the status quo. A task I face daily which is the challenge given how people are slow to change/adapt. The status quo is less risky, plus people tend to mirror the behavior of their environment.
Hi Jimmy,
I am so happy you returned! I was worried that you would leave the discussion feeling further disillusioned by yet another person talking about leadership in a way that does not reflect reality.
You clearly have a passion for leadership. I appreciated your comment because it demonstrated to me that, based on what you did read, you desire an honest discussion…not just pretty words that are inconsistent with experience.
Just so you know, you are not the first person to read a blog and skip the dialog. I’ve done that myself, jumped right in and later realized and was reminded of points that had already been made. Not good, not bad…just a learning experience.
I’ve also learned (or been told) that blogs are supposed to be short. This does not always allow for a full exploration of the topic presented. Luckily, our readership have consistently elaborated on our blogs, allowing us to continue the dialog. This gives us an opportunity to learn others’ perspective and elaborate on our own. It’s such an honor to have readers willing to share their wisdom and insight in a public forum. I look at every comment as a gift…even when they disagree with me.
You are very wise to value authenticity as a driving force of leadership. This allows for credibility, genuineness and vulnerability. Authenticity is an attribute I’m constantly striving to incorporate in all of my interactions. It requires risk and might be rejected. Thank you for adding it to the compass.
I checked out your blog and would encourage others to do the same:
http://smartketingreflections.blogspot.com
One thing that I really like about your blog is the set-up. You introduce the topic with “Blink”: a short description helping the reader decide if they want to read more. Then, you elaborate with “Read On”. Brilliant! I guess that’s why you are in marketing…you definitely have a gift.
I hope you continue to visit our site and add to the dialog! I admire your willingness to be authentic, even within this exchange. Peace to you, Jen
Peace to you, Jen
Hi Everyone,
Great discussion about leadership…Jen, terrific insight. I love teaching by analogy and you have supplied an excellent one for all of us.
Constance
Hi Constance,
Thank you! I’ve found this discussion to be most interesting. Many perspectives have been shared, and it’s allowed for a deeper dialog on leadership and it’s overall importance/meaning to each individual.
Cheers, Jen
Hi, Jen ~
I greatly appreciate this opportunity for us to share our thoughts, to learn from one another, and to grow. As I write these words, I wonder if we are somehow saying the same thing? With that, I’ll dive right in. Hope that’s okay.
I submit leadership is not a thing. It is not a process. Nor is it a position (or positional authority). I would further submit leadership is not self-seeking, or self-serving. I’m not suggesting it ‘shouldn’t be;’ I’m saying it cannot be these things.
For example, Hitler used strife in Europe after WWI to further his own goal of seizing power. Do we say Hitler was among the worst leaders of all time, or do we say Hitler was no leader at all? I know some would say he was a great leader, but for all the wrong reasons. Let’s see.
Is leadership about power, or people? If one says, leadership is about power, it becomes easy to discern a darker side of ‘leadership.’ It’s easier to see Hitler as a ‘leader.’ If leadership is about people, what we have instead is Hitler, Mussolini, and Stalin, among others, illustrating well for us the perils and pitfalls of power (e.g., hubris, nepotism, myopia, ineptitude, arrogance, and isolation). These are not the same thing as leadership. They are qualities of one in authority perhaps, but not leadership.
I contend leadership is cannot be about people AND power. Said differently, maintaining power over people is not leadership. One can maintain power; that’s not hard. But that’s not leadership either. However, it probably explains why a lot of wrong people are chosen for leadership roles.
Is relentless manipulation and cruel intimidation leadership? Is the extermination of those who disagree with you leadership? Is the use of violence leadership? Is dictatorship leadership? Can leadership ever emerge from a regime of terror?
Is one who lords over another their leader? Is control leadership? Is manipulation, political or otherwise, leadership? Is coercion leadership?
If we are met with conquest, are we led? If we are subjugated, are we led? If we are mastered, are we led?
What is leadership?
Let me suggest leadership is relationship; it’s a journey shared by those who choose to be led and those they choose to lead them. Mark Frankel puts it this way: leadership “is in part a moment, a chance opportunity, when someone steps forward and says, ‘This way, follow me.’ But, we find that once the moment passes, the leader just as often steps back and allows others to lead. The notion of moment assumes context; there must be people to lead, a need for leadership, and someone capable of leading.” I would add, it is up to the people to determine just who, in their hearts, has the capability to lead them. Marc goes on to say, leadership “is largely about understanding and connecting.”
John C. Maxwell teaches, “The measure of a leader is not the number of people who serve the leader, but the number of people served by the leader.” Leadership doesn’t just happen. “Leadership,” according to Marian Anderson, “should be born out of the understanding of the needs of those who would be affected by it.” “Only when service for a common good is the primary purpose,” suggests Sheila Murray Bethel, “are you truly leading.” Otherwise, she says, “If leadership serves only the leader, it will fail.”
Kouzes and Posner point out, “Leaders do not focus on satisfying their own aims and desires; they respond to needs, interests of [others].” George Barna, a contemporary research scholar, reminds us leadership “is not about position, power, popularity, or perks; it’s about servanthood.” Native American wisdom can help us here. The Cherokee say, “To lead is to serve ….” Their Kiowa brothers and sisters put it this way: “A leader is a servant of the people.”
So, why lead? Seems to me the fulfillment of leadership is the gratification of knowing that all of your efforts paid off in helping other people. Indeed, some of the best leaders are those that lead by being led. Perhaps that’s because a leader needs the people more than the people need the leader. Why? Because leadership is love, and leadership without love is no leadership at all.
Hi Jack,
Wonderfully written and thoughtful comment. I do think we share many ideals and ideas of what leadership is and ought to be. I would love to participate in a movement that redefines leadership. Using the questions and examples you cited:
Is leadership about power, or people? If one says, leadership is about power, it becomes easy to discern a darker side of ‘leadership.’ It’s easier to see Hitler as a ‘leader.’ If leadership is about people, what we have instead is Hitler, Mussolini, and Stalin, among others, illustrating well for us the perils and pitfalls of power (e.g., hubris, nepotism, myopia, ineptitude, arrogance, and isolation). These are not the same thing as leadership. They are qualities of one in authority perhaps, but not leadership.
I find your comment to be yet another compelling reason to challenge previous notions of leadership. These were people in positions of power, yet not leaders. However, according to the majority of what has been written about leadership, they can still be defined as leaders. Even some of the works you’ve cited, upon further study intimate that as long as there are followers, there is a leader.
You have a gift for expressing these concepts. I truly hope many read your comment so they can begin or continue to question the current/past definitions of leadership. It’s an ethical dilemma, that if effectively addressed could alter the future of leadership and increase accountability of those in authority. Ultimately, it may even serve to engage more people in the dialog and the efforts to ensure leadership is an honor and has obligations.
Thank you for continuing the dialog and adding a most profound comment. Excellent! Jen
Wow, as I was stumbling around and looking at my compass, it started spinning 360 degrees rapidly, so I stopped to get my bearings and found your blog and this fantastic thread on maintaining direction. Great, great thoughts!
It is always energizing to find engaged minds riffing on a post! Thanks for starting this Jen.
When I first read your post, (via Dan at LF) I thought also about paths, journeys, literal and metaphoric.
A mix of leadership and line staff, planting culture change seeds, queried in a presentation, “how do you get to Portland?” (from Salem, OR). Initial response was, “just drive North up Interstate 5 and you are there in abut 45 minutes”. “What if I-5 was blocked, how else?” “Well, you could take the old highway or the coast roads, which would be longer.” “How else?” Quizzical looks. Gears shifted, more ideas generated…could go by train, bike, plane, walk, could car pool, etc. “Can you get to Portland by going South?” “No..wait, maybe…if you went all the way to the South pole, came all the way around across the North pole…wow, that would be a trip!” People were engaged in coming up with all sorts of paths, methods of transport, even who they would take on the trips, when to stop.
That brainstorming permitted us to do the same process on where the group wanted the organizational culture to be heading. (While leadership had some maps and knew evidence based practice, this was an engagement process. Again, recognizing that the journey will take twists, turns, run into detours and potholes, however, what were the underlying values that we want to endorse. Who had the maps (compass). Us or the customers? Who should really have the maps (or compass) or decide on the path? If we had the maps, when did we hand them off? Again, great stuff, very energizing and helped to focus, bringing in EI and of course the moral compass, & effective communication as well.
Hi Doc,
Thanks for your energizing comments! I’m happy you stumbled upon our site…and through such a great leader himself (Dan). I am thrilled with your example of how to get to Portland. Talk about using a brainstorming session to it’s fullest! Those are awesome moments: people willing to connect, collaborate, think beyond their initial boundaries and share a common goal.
You nailed it with the question: “what were the underlying values that we want to endorse?” That’s what this post is about: where will your compass take you with the values you ascribe to it? What is truly critical to leadership? Is it possible to challenge previous definitions of leadership to help emerging leaders understand the gravity of their role?
This entire thread of dialog has been most valuable. I’m honored so many people have shared their wisdom, experience, thoughts, insight and encouragement.
Thank you for taking time to add to the conversation! Cheers, Jen
Jen,
Right on! Your article is the simple essence of what good leaders should do which is to follow THE COMPASS as you have so simply outline in your article. In the end if the leader is looking at this compass his people will follow him anywhere!
Nice job!!
Hi Larry,
Having worked with you and your amazing team at https://www.afcu.org/webfederal.asp it’s clear to me that you have a well-developed leadership style that is pointing in the right direction!
I agree with your comment that by following the compass, the leader will have more willing followers. This empowers both leaders and followers. It’s logical to consider that people want to follow someone they can trust. Leadership is a privilege and an honor. By approaching their role with the respect and reverence it deserves, leaders open themselves up to limitless possibilities.
Thanks so much for adding to the dialog. I appreciate and respect your opinion. Cheers, Jen
{ 11 trackbacks }