Comments on: Leadership – what does it mean to you?

By: Jackie Prendergast

Jackie Prendergast — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 18:41:44 +0000

Niall I absolutely agree with you that if you “choose” to be a leader then you probably aren't one. It is what makes me constantly challenge the appropriateness of “Leadership Develeopment” programmes. Because I absolutely believe that leaders are born. That isn't to say you can't nurture someone who already has that natural tendency but I really don't think you can make a leader as such. It does raise another interesting question though – how do you identify the natural leaders so you can then develop them to be great leaders?

By: Skip Weisman

Skip Weisman — Sat, 21 Nov 2009 12:33:57 +0000

Your mom sounds like a great leader. She probably doesn't even see herself in that way as she was just doing what came natural and what she thought needed to be done to help you and your siblings be successful in your life. Nice post.I recently created a series on my blog called "Champion Leadership Tips." To launch it, I developed my own definition of leadership, which is:"Inspiring others to do something they ordinarily would not do, and/or coaching them to perform at an even higher level than they ordinarily would perform, if left on their own."You can read more about my "Champion Leadership Tips," (this Monday, Nov. 23rd will be week #4) and subscribe to the series if you are inspired to do so at: http://tinyurl.com/leadershiptipsblog

By: nialldevitt

nialldevitt — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 21:15:41 +0000

Jackie, Great post and great question.I think leadership is sometimes borne out of frustration with the status quo, a burning desire to fix the things that are wrong or broken. Coupled with a strong moral obligation or a good moral compass, this frustration can motivate a leader in a very positive way (against the odds) This for me is the true gauge of a leader, what does he or she do when their back is against the wall. There also has to a desire to be different and a willingness to sacrifice for the good of the collective. For me, leadership is a word that is bandied about quite a bit, as in my lifetime I a have met very few what I would call true leaders. I don't really think you choose to be a leader, it more something that is entrusted. In fact, I think if you constructively choose the role of leader, It probably means you aren't one.Just my 2 pence word, thanks for asking.Cheers,Niall