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Light on Leadership
Why do leaders choose to lead?
Welcome to Light on Leadership! In under two minutes, our newsletter delivers one book recommendation, one leadership action step, and two leadership tips. We know you're busy, so we've designed this content to be both useful and shareable. Enjoy!
What are we reading? The Leap to Leader: How Ambitious Managers Make the Jump to Leadership.
Adam Bryant
In this book by Adam Bryant, a unique aspect of leadership is examined: how do you know you want to lead? Chapter One, "Do You Really Want to Lead?" poses this question we all should ask—but rarely do—before stepping into a formal leadership position. Bryant concludes that leaders are drawn to positions that present difficult challenges, finding fulfillment in solving problems that others tend to avoid.
From an internal perspective, it is important for us to reflect on how and why we are attracted to leadership. What drives you each day? What internal force gets you out of bed despite knowing you'll face conflicts and challenging decisions? While thousands of books and articles discuss leadership techniques, few explore why certain individuals are drawn to these demanding roles. Take time to consider the people and experiences that have shaped your desire to lead and influence others.
Action Step
When interviewing leadership candidates, ask what motivates them to serve others through leadership.
Purchase this book! https://www.amazon.com/Leap-Leader-Ambitious-Managers-Leadership/dp/1647824893
Two Tips
"I define a leader as anyone who takes responsibility for finding the potential in people and processes, and who has the courage to develop that potential.”
― Brené Brown
"Don’t believe your own press clippings – you have to realize that just because you have done one or two things well, it doesn’t guarantee that you’ll necessarily be a success in the future, or in other areas.”
- Fred Smith
