A Call for Leaders Who Lead

As a society, I think it’s time for us to return to the basics - we need to revisit the fundamentals of leadership. It’s time to reconsider the basics of leadership and redefine what it means to guide, inspire, and influence others toward a common vision.

Leadership isn’t just about occupying a position of authority; it’s about embodying certain principles and behaviors that drive positive change and foster growth.

In our rapidly evolving world, where technology, globalization, and social dynamics continuously reshape our environments, the essence of leadership remains constant. While the tools and contexts may change, the core principles of effective leadership endure. Therefore, it’s crucial to anchor our understanding of leadership in timeless truths while also adapting to contemporary challenges.

So, let us define leadership. Leadership is commonly defined as the action, position, or capacity of leading a group of people or an organization, involving guidance, direction, and the ability to inspire and influence others toward a common goal or vision. I think it’s important to note that one of the outcomes of true leadership is to work towards a common goal and vision.

Leadership is not a monolithic concept; it manifests in various forms and styles. From visionary leaders who inspire through bold ideas to servant leaders who prioritize the needs of others, there is no one-size-fits-all approach. Instead, effective leadership emerges from an understanding of context, audience, and purpose.

Moreover, the role of leadership extends beyond mere management or authority. It transcends hierarchical structures and empowers individuals at all levels to contribute meaningfully. In today’s interconnected world, leadership is distributed, with influence flowing horizontally as well as vertically. Therefore, cultivating leadership capabilities within organizations is essential for fostering innovation, collaboration, and resilience.

I think it’s important to note that one of the outcomes of true leadership is to work toward a common goal and vision. A shared sense of purpose not only aligns individuals but also catalyzes collective action. When leaders articulate a compelling vision that resonates with people’s values and aspirations, they inspire commitment and dedication. However, crafting such a vision requires empathy, insight, and foresight.

In order to be authentic, the vision or principles that the leader follows should be brought up in discussions whenever critical decisions are being made. Authentic leadership entails transparency, integrity, and consistency. Leaders must align their words with their actions and demonstrate sincerity in their intentions. Trust is the bedrock of effective leadership, and it is cultivated through authenticity.

Yet, authenticity does not imply rigidity. Leaders must be adaptable and open to feedback, willing to reassess their strategies and beliefs in light of new information. In today’s complex and uncertain world, agility is a prized attribute, enabling leaders to navigate ambiguity and seize opportunities amidst challenges.

I feel that leaders too often change the standards depending on the situation. Inconsistency breeds mistrust and undermines credibility. When leaders shift their stance or principles based on expediency, they erode the foundation of leadership. True leadership requires moral courage—the willingness to uphold ethical principles even in the face of adversity.

I believe that when the direction and the yardstick change depending on the situation, the authenticity and effectiveness of the leader need to be challenged. Leadership is not a static state but a dynamic process of continuous growth and learning. It requires humility to acknowledge mistakes and resilience to bounce back from setbacks.

Leaders who embrace a growth mindset are better equipped to navigate complexity and foster innovation.

For example, if a leadership purports that all people should have access to basic amenities, and it’s our individual right to have these things, then this right needs to be given to all people, not just a subset of the population. Equity and justice are integral to ethical leadership. Leaders must champion inclusivity and fairness, addressing systemic barriers and disparities.

The definition of leadership also brings into light the term “capacity of leading a group”. So, what exactly does that mean? Capacity refers to many factors, including but not limited to knowledge, adaptability, emotional intelligence, mental capacity, resources, and motivation, to name a few.

In order for leaders to lead effectively, they need to be rational, logical, and have experience in the field they are leading. Rationality and logic provide a framework for decision-making, enabling leaders to assess risks and opportunities objectively. Experience, meanwhile, offers insights and perspectives that inform strategic direction and operational execution.

One of the recurring challenges in the business world is the phenomenon of individuals ascending to leadership positions without adequate experience or expertise in their respective fields. Research indicates that this lack of transferable experience can have detrimental effects on organizational performance and employee morale. According to a study by Harvard Business Review, CEOs with prior industry experience are more likely to achieve higher financial performance and exhibit better decision-making capabilities compared to those without relevant experience.

Furthermore, a survey conducted by McKinsey &? Company revealed that organizations led by experienced executives are better equipped to navigate market uncertainties, adapt to technological disruptions, and capitalize on emerging opportunities. Conversely, leaders lacking field-specific expertise may struggle to understand industry dynamics, identify growth opportunities, and address challenges effectively.

Let’s go back to the basics- the fundamental principles so we do not lose our way. For the love of humanity, and a better society to all, I’m imploring for our leaders to lead, and to take a stand. The time for change is now. Leadership is not a privilege but a responsibility—a call to action in service of a greater good. By embracing our collective potential and embodying the values of empathy, integrity, and resilience, we can create a future that is brighter and more equitable for generations to come.