My Heroes &
Personal Philosophy of Leadership
I personally admire many kinds of people, especially those who are great leaders with immense stature on the world. I have to admit that I look up to great leaders as role models who genuinely care about others. Exemplary leadership and character in being a good role model are so important in these times. Here are a few of my thoughts about the traits that encompasses outstanding leadership:
A Great Leader:
Understands that one person alone can do nothing— that something of lasting value is usually the result of a group effort.
Genuinely cares and is interested in others. Such caring means that a good leader is collegial and builds a sense of group identity and purpose.
“Brings out the best” in people, seeks the development and advancement of each member of the group, and delights in each person’s growth in ability and of character.
Is deliberative, involving the group in decisions wherever possible and encourages, supports, and applauds the members of the group.
In short, an exemplary leader is an amalgam of many good traits – tough when the situation is called for – gentle and with a light touch who is never a push over. Great leaders tend to enter the world in a whisper when they are born and exit in shouts of ovation when they die. But no matter which heroes we admire, it is most important to always be original and be yourself. Below are pictures of a few of my personal heroes:
President Ronald Reagan
John Wayne
Superman (and Christopher Reeve)
President Abraham Lincoln