Sunday, April 24, 2011

My personal perception on 'Leadership'

How many ever realise that we are all leaders in one way or another? I believe many will consider leaders as someone who hold high posts; those who indulge in activities of organisations or clubs; or the most outstanding of all our State and Country's Political Leaders. If this is what we have in mind, then, it is indeed a wrong perception!

Let us not forget that each and everyone of us are leaders in our own home and family. Leading a family is as huge a responsibility as leading an organisation, though there are some differences in terms of expectations, requirements, procedures and processes.

The building up of this leadership qualities starts early in life, whereby many might not realise! For example, in any group of children or youngsters who get together for games, sports or even during their studies in class, a few always seem to take the lead. It can be seen for those who have no leadership quality, as they will not be willing to step forward, instead will just shy off!

Whatever the scenario may be, it is from this childhood years that helps build up these leadership skills, which by the time their educational years are over, there will be possibility for them to be potential leaders as they step into their career life. Others might be leaders in organisations or clubs, while some in politics.

In any circumstances, it is not always that these young leaders grow up to benefit mankind, while for some they may not grow up to be leaders at all. Occasionally, a rather quiet and shy youngster develops later in life those qualities of leadership and goes on to become a corporate figure or political leader.

Though leaders are aplenty in every fields and areas, it is sad to say that there are many who don't lead with sincerity. Such a situation will set bad examples to others as the phrase 'The best example of leadership is leadership by example!' Why is it so??? It is as simple as people tends to follow their leaders - what they say, do, request, etc.

I strongly believe that good leaders should embrace the full spirit of 'PROFESSIONALISM', which many are still lacking. Many still lead according to their whims and fancies! Leaders should be able to accept the views of those within the team, not just expecting others to follow blindly. Everyone should be given equal opportunity in discussions or debate. Whatever decisions made must be beneficial to everyone concerned, whereas irresponsible leaders tends to point fingers and decisions are made for purpose of personal gain. Based on my personal experience, decisions from co-members can be more effective than those from the top. How many care to think that way?????

Professional leaders can and will accept constructive criticism for the betterment of an organisation, or in the case of politics, professional political leaders will bring their State or Country to achieve great heights. With full trust, respect and sincere support from the people the country's leaders will reap great rewards with stable economic growth and development; unity, respect and care among the people as well as it's leaders; and setting good examples to our neighboring countries and finally gaining full respect from the whole world!!

Finally, before I end, I would like to share some beautiful quotes.......

"The quality of leadership, more than any other single factor, determines the success or failure of an organization"
~ Fred Fiedler & Martin Chemers ~
(Improving Leadership Effectiveness)

"Lead and inspire people. Don't try to manage and manipulate people. Inventories can be managed but people must be lead"
~ Ross Perot ~

"Leadership should be born out of the understanding of the needs of those who would be affected by it".
~ Marian "Anderson ~

1 comment:

Anonymous said...

Thanks for sharing this great article.