Successful Leadership: The Aspiration to Inspire Others
Heather Shaw
Liberty University
Abstract
This paper addresses many of the behaviors needed to lead others effectively. Leadership is not achieved through an appointed position, but rather, through character traits that inspire others to follow. The variations of leadership power and styles identify key leadership qualities. The fundamental traits of transformational and servant leadership, focus on the empowerment of others. Ethical integrity is the foundation of leadership character, a critical factor of successful leadership abilities.
Successful Leadership: The Aspiration to Inspire Others
Purpose of Leadership Often, a common misconception made between leaders and managers. There is a significant difference distinguishing management and leadership. Any person has the ability to manage; however, it takes the very nature and character of an individual to lead others. Kirsten Graham published an article Leading with a Purpose: A Case for Soul Leadership in Development and Learning in Organizations, examining the very principles of leadership (2011). Graham (2011) emphasizes a crucial element of leadership stating that leadership is not acquired through processes and abilities, “but the expression of their true nature”. Leaders have a vision to explore opportunities, empowering others to follow in the same passion for success. The role of leadership is crucial to empower and inspire others to engage in productive change. Effective leadership begins on the inside with a purpose to serve others. Graham identifies the importance of leadership models and theories; however, states often these concepts fail to recognize the principle and character of a leader prior to incentives (2011). The nature of an individual reveals specific qualities to lead others. Graham conveys the idea of the “4Ps of soul leadership”
References: Barrett, C. (2011). Servant leadership. Leadership Excellence, 28(10), 4-5. Retrieved from http://search.proquest.com/docview/903978203?accountid=12085 Ben-Hur, S., & Jonsen, K Derr, C. L. (2012). Ethics and leadership. Journal of Leadership, Accountability and Ethics, 9(6), 66-71. Retrieved from http://search.proquest.com/docview/1315152989?accountid=12085 Graham, K Jogulu, U. D. (2010). Culturally-linked leadership styles [Electronic version]. Leadership & Organization Development Journal, 31(8), 705-719. doi: http://dx.doi.org.ezproxy.liberty.edu:2048/10.1108/01437731011094766 Jones-Burbridge, J Thomas, G. (2009). Preparing for successful leadership. Leadership, 38(3), 25. Retrieved from http://search.proquest.com/docview/204320197?accountid=12085 Vinod, S., & Sudhakar, B. (2011). Servant leadership: A unique art of leadership! Interdisciplinary Journal of Contemporary Research in Business, 2(11), 456-467. Retrieved from http://search.proquest.com/docview/863574332?accountid=12085 Waldman, D