Leadership is a verb, not a noun. Leadership is action, not a position. Leadership is defined by what we do, not the role we assume. Some people in leadership roles are excellent leaders. But too many are bosses, "snoopervisors," technocrats, bureaucrats, managers, commanders and chiefs.
To lead is to show the way by going in advance. To lead is to guide or direct a course of action. To lead is to influence the behavior or opinion of others. Leadership development is personal development. Leadership ultimately shows itself in what we do "out there," but it starts "in here."
The journey of personal growth means finding our own way. There are, however, critical areas of personal development based on timeless principles. The distance we need to grow along each leadership dimension will differ for each of us, but defining and continually growing along each of these paths is the way of the leader.
Strong leaders are well-rounded and constantly expanding their personal leadership across these key areas:
• Choose Not to Lose. When we are faced with obstacles and failure, those who can overcome adversity and learn from their experiences, turning them into opportunities, are the ones who will be truly successful.
• Focus and Context. Our focus and context are shaped by three vital questions: Where am I going? (my vision); What do I believe in? (my principles and values); and Why do I exist? (my purpose or mission).
• Responsibility For Choices. Leaders realize that life accumulates, that choice more than chance determines their circumstances. They refuse to succumb to the "Victimitus Virus" ("it's all their fault" and "there's nothing I can do").
• Authenticity. Leadership isn't just what we do, it's something that we are, which then drives what we do. It's authentic, and based on honesty, integrity and trust. We must ring true to ourselves by exploring our inner space, gathering feedback on our personal behavior and ensuring consistency with our stated values and principles.
• Passion and Commitment. Successful people are energized by a love for what they do because it brings them ever closer to who they are. They overcome apathy and cynicism, develop a burning commitment to their cause, and with discipline achieve their dreams and desires.
• Growing and Developing. The popular goals of security, stability and predictability are deadly. The closer we get to these dangerous goals, the more our growth is stunted. True and lasting security comes from constant growth and development, based on regular R&R (reflection and renewal).
• Mobilizing and Energizing. Leaders don't motivate with rewards and punishments. Highly effective leaders boost the energy of others with their passion and appreciation. They engage people's hearts as well as their minds. They get them involved and participating. They actively nurture the "being" or culture of the group, not just the "doing."
By Jim Clemmer
Jim Clemmer's practical leadership & personal growth books, workshops and team retreats have helped hundreds of thousands of people worldwide improve personal, team and organizational performance. Jim's website, JimClemmer.com, has more than 300 articles and dozens of video clips covering a broad range of topics on change, organization improvement, self-leadership, and leading others. Sign up to receive Jim's popular monthly newsletter, and follow his leadership blog. Jim's international best-sellers include The VIP Strategy, Firing on All Cylinders, Pathways to Performance, Growing the Distance, The Leader's Digest and Moose on the Table. His latest book is Growing @ the Speed of Change.