On Leadership

Lance Soares up in Massachussetts sent this along. It's worth the read.

Many people do not qualify as leaders, but are always on the lookout for a good one. People complain of lack of leadership and yet perish the thought of stepping up to the plate themselves. Just imagine if leaders could show up on call. Wouldn't that be a wonderful circumstance to experience? But, the reality of the situation is that leaders come from within the ranks of those they serve more often than not. True leaders serve because they are called to service. If a person looks at what they can get before what they can give, their leadership position will not endure.
The functions of positional leadership are designed to meet the needs of those who support a leader in their role. Imagine a pyramid as a base and consider the foundation of the structure as it rises to a pinnacle or point. The point is the culmination of the edifice, but the support is in the structure below. As with leadership, a person doesn't rise to the top without personal effort, nor does a person stay in this position without positive action. Leaders need to cultivate an alliance with the group they represent.
Consider that a good leader serves as a spokesperson for the group. This is one aspect of their role. Another equally important aspect is that they serve as a visionary and sets the pace for the group to follow. The Biblical quotation, "Without vision the people perish" is a good reminder for leaders in any field to stay ahead of the norm. A leader should maintain the status quo, but also have an eye on growth and development. Leaders who are stagnant do not maintain equilibrium in the organization, but begin a downward spiral. Leaders who are in motion, utilize the energy of the flow to empower themselves and their organization to new heights.
As in life, when you're green you grow, when you're ripe you rot. There can be no status quo leadership. By definition, a leader must think intelligently and take action. Nothing less is acceptable.
Be Your Very Best Always,
Judy Williamson
Director of the Napoleon Hill Learning Center
at Perdue University Calumet