A couple months ago I asked my connections on Facebook and Twitter “What I’m pondering: Is leadership built or born?” I received a mixed response of “Born!” or “Built!” while a few took their time and said “Both!”
Over the last several months I have been making some observations about leadership and I would have to agree with the later answer: Leadership can be both built and born.
As a “Doer,” I was born to take charge, initiate, and lead. However, I have discovered through personal experience, a leader isn’t defined, or even qualified by, the loudness of his or her voice or how controlling he or she may be at any given time. Instead, the measure of a leader is defined by the people who are willing to follow that individual. I heard once if you think you are leading and you look behind you and no one is following, you are just taking a walk. I believe the ability to gain followership, and then move people to action is truly the definition of a leader. Can that skill be born? Perhaps, but more importantly–and a relief to many—I believe leadership is something that be learned if fostered over time.
I have spent a lot of time thinking about what it takes to be a leader and how I can effectively motivated/move a team to success. My ponderings have led to some insights I believe are important for any emerging leader and worthy to be shared with interested readers. I am coming out of hibernation to use this post and the next to share “The Lessons I Have Learned on Leadership.”
As always stay tuned and if you have missed my wit (don’t blame you) you can keep updated with my happenings @danidotnoah.
