Inspire Success: Leadership Through Logical Insights

An intriguing metaphor used in some leadership circles compares humans to three types - sheep, wolves, and sheepdogs. This analogy examines different motivations driving human behavior and calls leaders to adopt the mindset of noble sheepdogs protecting the vulnerable from exploitation. The sheep represent those unable or unwilling to safeguard their own welfare. They live unaware of threats swirling around them, content in their passivity or unable to counter forces determined to feast on their innocence. Sheep flow blindly with the herd, neither considering alternate paths nor questioning potentially dangerous destinations ahead. They epitomize societies asleep at the wheel, disengaged from civic duties essential to democracy’s defense. The wolves describe those inclined to advance personal agendas without regard for ethical boundaries or who they trample along the way. Wolves feel entitled to accumulate influence, wealth and prestige at any cost, employing manipulation, fear or ...

What makes an extraordinary leader? Some argue effective leadership is an art - shaped by real-world experiences, relationships and intuition. Others believe exceptional leaders leverage scientific insights from psychology, neuroscience and organizational behavior research. In truth, masterful leadership requires a blend of both art and science. Leaders must balance experience and education to drive optimal outcomes. The Art of Leadership Art represents the softer side of leadership. It encompasses the interpersonal abilities that allow leaders to connect, communicate and collaborate. Artistic leaders tell compelling stories that capture attention and inspire action. They paint a vivid vision of the future focused on noble purposes over profits. These visionaries display creativity in solving problems and courage in challenging stale status quos. Artistic leadership shines through a leader’s presence, charisma and approachability. Employees are drawn to leaders who exude authenti...

What does it really mean to “add value” as a leader? It’s a phrase thrown around a lot in the business world but actualizing that principle in concrete ways can sometimes feel ambiguous or vague. I believe one simple yet powerful way leaders can add tremendous value is this: See an open seat that needs filling, and fill it. What do I mean by that? Think of any team, project, meeting, or initiative like a metaphorical table. There are chairs seated around that table for all the roles needed to deliver or decide something. Some may be clearly defined established seats - a dedicated project manager role or required decision maker, for example. But there are always additional unclaimed seats remaining too. Seats that could benefit the outcome if filled by someone willing, regardless of if it’s technically “their job” or not. A seat for bringing levity and morale when spirits are lagging. A seat for bringing cross-functional perspective outside the groupthink bubble. A seat for asking t...