The kaleidoscope called leadership

Abstract

Purpose

Leadership is a complex concept that is discussed often in many books, blogs and articles, which try to identify those necessary traits to make one a leader. But leadership is ambiguous in that the characteristics that makes one a leader in one situation may not work and may even be detrimental in a similar one. Defining it is difficult, knowing it when you see it is easy. The purpose of this paper is to intend to make you aware of its complexity and your ability to become a leader yourself.

Design/methodology/approach

By briefly comparing two successful but dissimilar leaders, the scope and breadth of leadership is introduced. Rather than attempting to define leadership, the paper proceeds to talk about what leadership is not, and why. It ends with an affirmation of our ability to become a leader and a “nudge” to develop those leadership skills we already possess.

Findings

The paper suggests leadership is autological, something which defines itself, and that it is seen as different by every individual. It also proposes that we all have leadership traits within us and that whether we are consciously aware of it or not, we act as leaders every day.

Practical implications

The thoughts this paper evokes can help those who are in leadership positions, those striving to become better leaders, and those who are not aware of their leadership potential by broadening their perspectives of leadership and our ability to attain it.

Originality/value

This paper presents leadership in a unique manner, identifying its complexities while providing assurances it can be attained.

Citation

Bennett, R.J. (2016), "The kaleidoscope called leadership", Industrial and Commercial Training, Vol. 48 No. 2, pp. 86-88. https://doi.org/10.1108/ICT-07-2015-0050