Our world is sick. Sick from terrorism, piracy, human rights abuse, corruption, poverty, climate change, and other disturbing social ills.
Solutions are therefore needed to either eradicate or ameliorate the impact of these problems. And this makes the demand for solution-driven leaders to be high like never before.
Leadership exists to get things properly done—for the interest of all. The true leader shows her followers the future they should see with their mind’s eye. He behaves in ways that will inspire others to do more and reach their dreams.
Yet, it is not always we have prepared leaders piloting the affairs of countries, non-governmental organizations, and other “vital groups” that exist to make the world a better place.
Many leaders (in business, politics, religion, family, etc.) aspire to lead without knowing or intending to know the tenets of true leadership.
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For instance, in Nigeria, it is common to see accidental political leaders holding sensitive positions in government.
Some are at the saddle because their influential godfathers broke protocols to handpick them. While others paid heavily to get into power, even without the support of the masses.
Only a few of such political leaders do live up to their responsibilities. Why? Because they did not come through the back door and were prepared for the new position they hold.
Leadership is for those who are earnestly ready to lead and make a difference. That is why Paul H. Dunn rightly expressed that:
“If one aspires to a position merely for self-gratification, with no ambition to serve his fellow beings, he is doing himself and his fellowmen a great disservice.”
A medical director who does not know his duties may end up risking the lives of patients and bring the health facility he is overseeing to disrepute or closure.
A football coach who does not know the right players to use in a match and can’t motivate them to perform well is bound to be sacked.
Leadership is not a tea party: It entails having a vision and communicating it to followers; drafting a strategic plan; and working effortlessly to realize the said vision.
The failure of leadership is detrimental not only to the leader but the society as a whole. That is why aspiring leaders should learn the roles they are expected to play beforehand.
A fisherman will ensure his nets and hooks are inside his boat before leaving the shores. A boxer trains strenuously before each bout. An aspiring leader must learn the art of leadership if he or she wants to make a mark.
True leaders love and respect their followers and treat them like family. They have a strong, yet compelling, character. They put the interest of others before theirs. And they are usually patient with followers.
So kindly forget leadership if you do not have the character of a leader.
But again…
You do not have to forget leadership just because you lack its tenets, which are learnable.
You can humbly learn how to lead. Maintain a receptive mind. Meet successful leaders to mentor you. Buy and read books on leadership and self-improvement to equip yourself to become the leader the world will celebrate tomorrow.
There is nothing wrong in aspiring to lead. But while we do so, we should not forget the place of preparation and continual improvement.
