Leading from within

Leadership is a process that emanates from the essence of us and requires an understanding of who we are and why we are who we are. The process of leadership is a reflection of our thoughts and beliefs. These thoughts and beliefs, in addition to a passion to make a difference, result in actions.

An understanding of their inner identity, purpose, and vision is critical for persons in leadership positions. Without the ability to identify core values, to achieve balance, one cannot authentically cope with the demands of leadership in the ever-changing fast pace of the world today. Persons contemplating leadership in any arena must take time out to reflect, to seriously consider three basic questions: (1) Who am I? (2) What is my primary purpose or passion? (3) What do I value? We lead by virtue of who we are. Understanding what makes us tick, our true nature, is unfamiliar territory to many of us. Yet, this core, our inner self, is an important factor in determining the manner in which we lead or, for that matter, follow.

Leadership development programs have proliferated greatly. Yet, chronic social and economic problems persist, schools are struggling, business organizations are downsizing, and the marketplace is in chaos. Perhaps the development of new leadership by focusing on programs that change external behaviors through the use of skill building will place us on a successful trajectory. However, do the programs ask the correct questions about the kind of leadership? Several ideals appear to be prevalent. First is the thought that youthful leadership with tremendous energy and ambition to succeed will create the new successful environment. Second is the image of the “hero” leader of old, the champion with extraordinary vision, stature, public presence, and great risktaking abilities. Third is the idea of the leader who is a skilled strategist, analyst, and organizational expert with the ability to generate tremendous enthusiasm around a team effort. All three of these ideals are good, but they miss the essence of leadership. They emphasize the skills and personalities of leaders but neglect the deeper and more essential elements of inner spirit, values, authenticity, and hope.

Leadership development programs historically emphasize external development. They focus on leadership styles, visioning, public speaking skills, strategic planning for shared visioning, team building, conflict resolution, and so forth. Few programs, if any, take the time to help people understand that their actions are a reflection of their inner being, their beliefs, values, and passions. The leader and the inner person are not separable. Leadership development and personal development enjoy what might be termed a “symbiotic” (mutually beneficial) relationship. The words of Paul Walsh, chairman and CEO of Pillsbury, reflect this philosophy. He said that the missing link in leadership development programs is first growing the person in order to then grow the leader. The way people lead is a conscious presentation of their inner being, an authentic self-expression that proclaims their true values. Restructuring leadership development programs from a series of exercises focused on external behaviors to an integrated, personal development, as well as content-driven [Page 881]seminars and lectures, greatly strengthens the learners and the organizations.

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