What Leadership Means to Me

I suppose leadership at one time meant muscles; but today it means getting along

with people.

Indira Gandhi

two time prime minister, India

Leadership is action, not position.

Donald H. McGannon

Former president of Westinghouse Broadcasting Co. and the National Urban

League

Defining LeadershipPeople have studied and talked about

leadership for many years and defined it in many different ways; even the experts do

not agree on a single definition.

Defining LeadershipFrom the Merriam-Webster’s Collegiate

Dictionary:

“the office or position of a leader; the capacity to lead; or the act of an instance

of leading.”

Defining LeadershipFrom On Becoming a Leader (2003) by

Warren Bennis*

“knowing yourself, having a vision that is well communicated, building trust among colleagues, and taking effective action to

realize your own leadership potential”

*Because of his contributions to

leadership people refer to him as a “leadership guru”.

After Session 2 Activities

• How easy or difficult was it to come up with descriptive words?

• How many words or phrases on your lists do you consider negative descriptions of leadership or leaders?

• What characteristics did every group list? Why do you think these terms are so common?

After Session 2 Activities

• When you think of the people who are leaders in your life, which of these characteristics do you associate with their leadership?

• What characteristics are unrealistic to expect in a leader?

After Session 2 Activities

• In general, what overall expectations do you have of leaders?

• Do you think your expectations are realistic?

• What do you think, feel, or do when leaders do not live up to your expectations?