Leadership is the
capacity to influence others through inspiration motivated by a passion,
generated by a vision, produced by a conviction, ignited by a purpose. Under this
definition, the word leader is not a label that you give to yourself. Leader is
what the people whom you inspire call you because they are stirred to
participate in the positive vision that you are presenting them – whether it is
the vision for a country, a company, or a cause. The practical application of
this definition begins with an individual’s discovery of a personal purpose
that, when captured, ignites a conviction. This conviction generates a vision
in the person’s heart that stirs a passion. The force of this person’s
passionate pursuit of this vision inspires others, who are stirred to join in
and cooperate with the vision. This ultimate effect is called “influence” and
results in the followers acknowledging the individual as their “leader”.
To clarify the process
of leadership according to our working definition, let us review the
progression of leadership development:
1.
Purpose
2.
Conviction
3.
Vision
4.
Passion
5.
Inspiration
6.
Influence
7.
Leadership
True leadership is
impossible unless all these ingredients are present and integrated as a whole,
producing a force for change in our communities, societies, and the world.
Leadership is a
privilege given by the followers. The great Jewish rabbi, Jesus of Nazareth –
the ultimate model of effective leadership – inspired his chosen followers so
much that they left their businesses and, for a time, their families, in order
to follow him. He never threatened them or forced them to come, but he inspired
them and then invited them to join Him.
Inspiration is the key
to legitimate influence and thus the source of true leadership. Inspiration should
be the pursuit of all true leaders. Inspiration is priority in the development
of a leader and his leadership. In fact, true leadership is one hundred percent
influence through inspiration.
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