The leader in midlife

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to frame and open up a new, often hidden conversation that leaders often have privately … namely which way to go in the second half of life to legitimize the need to build the “self‐leadership” topic into leadership development models and programs.

Design/methodology/approach

The author is a coach and seminar leader who has spoken to over 100,000 people in over 50 corporations. The message is gleaned from that work plus his own studies, formal and informal of adult development.

Findings

The key concept is how to sustain productivity and commitment over a ten year career. When this topic is discussed openly and legitimately in organizational settings, it engenders “natural productivity”. When it is hidden, contracted, or not discussed, it engenders burnout, fatigue and lack of commitment.

Originality/value

Provides a viewpoint on leadership development.

Citation

Leider, R.J. (2008), "The leader in midlife", Business Strategy Series, Vol. 9 No. 3, pp. 115-118. https://doi.org/10.1108/17515630810873339