Leadership is Learning

Too often I hear the complaint that current leaders lack this or lack that. And it is probably true, leaders are not perfect. Each of us comes up short somewhere or in something. These external criticisms are easily discounted in comparison to the personal criticisms we tend to provide ourselves. As leaders it is important that we overcome the irrational idea that because we are leading we are infallible. Or that there is a perfect solution to each situation faced and if it is not found the results will be catastrophic. The reality is that there are key principles of leadership that when applied regardless of the situation or our experience produce improved results. Good leadership is when the leader has learned key principles and applies them, such as innovation, inspiration and initiative. Each new circumstance is a different learning opportunity, and leadership is developed by learning how to apply the principles appropriately. So mistakes will be made and that is OK, keep trying and learn.