UNDERSTANDING LEADERSHIP: WHAT IS A LEADER?
Across all business and beyond sectors, a question often comes up: “What is a leader?” While some perceive leadership as a quality one is born with or a title bestowed upon, leadership’s reality is far more nuanced. Leadership is not merely an innate trait or a gift of status but a complex skill that takes time and experience to cultivate. Today, we will walk you through the essence of leadership, some common myths that need to be debunked, and the key attributes that define a true leader in today’s dynamic landscape.
The Implicit Leadership Theory
Take a moment and ask yourself, “What is a leader?” Do you have a definition? The Implicit Leadership Theory sheds light on the subjective nature of leadership perceptions. We each have our own preconceived notions about what is a leader. These notions are built throughout our lives by personal experiences, cultural factors, and societal norms.
Due to this, people try to copy these ideals when developing leadership as well as evaluate other potential leaders based on this internal criteria. Just like any other stereotype, this theory encourages people to focus on authentic actions and impact.
Leadership is a Skill and a Journey
Leadership, contrary to popular belief, is not an innate gift reserved for a select few individuals. Instead, it is a skill that can be developed and honed over time through dedication, practice, and continuous learning.
By understanding leadership as a skill, aspiring leaders can embark on a journey of self-improvement and growth, striving to become more effective and impactful in their roles. It’s not about wielding power; it’s about empowering others and driving collective success.
Unfortunately, leadership is not a journey without obstacles; instead, it is often characterized by peaks and valleys. In the highs, such as achieving significant milestones, leadership may seem effortless. However, it is during the lows, in what is metaphorically referred to as “The Valley,” where true leadership is tested. Embracing The Valley as an inevitable part of the leadership journey empowers leaders to grow, evolve, and emerge stronger than before.
What is a Leader in Management?
Management isn’t merely about overseeing tasks; it’s a form of leadership in itself. While some may excel more in managerial roles than others, it doesn’t diminish their leadership capacity. According to the authors of PXT Select™, six key leadership skills encompass management:
- Creating a vision.
- Inspiring people.
- Developing strategies.
- Ensuring results.
- Being approachable.
- Developing others.
Of these six skills, leaders can then be categorized into three areas: directional leadership, operational leadership, and relational leadership. In essence, effective management embodies the realities of leadership in action.
Embracing Leadership: A Journey of Growth
Embarking on the path of leadership is not merely a destination but a transformative journey of growth and discovery. By redefining leadership as a skill, navigating the challenges with resilience, and prioritizing the well-being of others, individuals can truly embody the essence of leadership.
As you continue develop your organizational leaders, we recommend partnering with us at PeopleWorks to enhance your team’s leadership skills and unlock full potential. Together, we can cultivate a culture of effective leadership and drive lasting success in your organization.