The Difficulties of Defining Leadership

Curious about what leadership actually means? Me too. We all know leadership is critical to maximizing success, but what exactly is it?

To grasp how difficult it is to precisely define leadership, just consider the title of a recent article from Business News Daily: “33 Ways to Define Leadership.”

In this blog post, we’ll attempt to whittle down these definitions, distill the true meaning of “leadership,” and use it to answer the following questions:

• Can I be a leader?
• How?
• And if not, what should I do?

Leadership Means Having “Vision”

A common thread that runs through all discussions about leadership is the ability to have a “vision.” For some people, this vision might be a private one, such as getting a promotion, finding a significant other, buying a dream house, or taking an exotic vacation.

But, while all of these are legitimate goals, true leadership requires a broader vision that inspires others and motivates them to act on and achieve it.

Darcy Eikenberg, founder of leadership development and executive coaching firm Red Cape Revolution, adds that a leader “has the clarity to know the right things to do, the confidence to know when she’s wrong, and the courage to do the right things even when they’re hard.”

Ultimately, by accomplishing the goals set out for them, a better reality is meant to be achieved for those who follow their leader.

It Might Not be as Hard as it Sounds!

The ability to develop a vision that both inspires and motivates others to achieve it might seem like a tremendous task. But, in reality, a vision can be pretty simple.

For instance, Apple CEO Tim Cook described the company’s purpose in very basic terms in an interview with Fortune.com back in 2009: “We believe that we are on the face of the earth to make great products and that’s not changing.” Simple, yes, but sometimes it’s the simplest ideas that can be the most inspirational. Just think of Martin Luther King’s “I have a dream…” speech, which will likely continue to inspire generations for years to come.

Like me, you’ve probably met people in the past with leadership titles who did not have vision, nor did they inspire. But most of them had the management capacity to surround themselves with a team that did. Conversely, I’ve also met plenty of people who lead without the title.

It’s Not for Everyone… But That’s OK

So, the question is, “Can anyone lead?”

Carolina Billings, CEO of The Hive Consulting Group, expresses a belief held by myself and many others, namely that leadership is intertwined with personality: “You see leaders, true leaders, do not have a choice but to lead. It is such a core value that most of the time you are not even aware you are doing it.”

By “core values,” she means having aspirations beyond your personal wellbeing, enthusiastically engaging other interested parties, and effectively communicating how their actions can advance the cause. And, yes, you must also have confidence and courage.

Much more complex than offering a compelling vision are the management skills required to convert enthusiasm into action. If you have the personality to lead and can create a compelling vision, you’ll likely have good leadership skills too. But beware – leadership can be a risky business!

Sure, some people might have the capability to lead, but they might also be reticent about the scrutiny that they’re likely to come under as a leader. Others might find that their own personal vision does not align with the mission and culture of their organization. If this is the case, it’s likely that they won’t last long in the company.

Or they might be all for the mission, but then fail to achieve it. In which case, they risk being judged a failure.

Are You Really Up to the Task?

Before actively seeking a leadership role, make sure you are ready for the consequences. Ask yourself: “Do I have the time and energy to take the plunge at this time? Do I have the resources to withstand a job loss? Do I think that my personality is suited to a leadership role?”

If the answer to any of these questions is a “no,” then maybe it’s time to think about a different career strategy.

Alternatively, you could explore more about what it takes to become a leader by shadowing an existing leader in need of competent management help. Doing this will help you to earn trust and respect, and provide insight into the current leadership landscape. But, be sure that you truly believe in your chosen leader’s vision, because aligning yourself with it will become part of your personal brand.

Finally, if you’re ready to work on the skills required to be a leader then, have no fear, you are in exactly the right place. Mind Tools has a whopping 59 articles on Leadership Skills alone! So jump in, be diligent and persevere!

Share this post