'Accept everything about yourself - I mean everything, You are you and that is the beginning and the end - no apologies, no regrets.' -Henry A. Kissinger What does it take to become a leader anyway? Some would say money, good looks, or plain good fortune. Great leaders are born. Good leaders keep working on it, explains Herman Cain, talk show host and former executive of Godfathers Pizza. I pondered Hermans words during his presentation at a leadership seminar at the Regent University. His inspirational words were more than a sermon. It was a practical application of textbook theories. Analyzing Mr. Cains speech, I concluded that his leadership philosophy was consistent with contemporary leadership theories. Youve heard the argument about leaders being born and not made. Some people believe that you cant train people to be leaders. Lets explore this theory. Hackman and Johnson, management gurus, explain that the trait approach of leadership advocates that nature plays a key role in determining leadership potential. Some leaders have an uncanny way of connecting with people and inspiring them. Are you one of these people? Before you run with this concept, I would suggest that this concept is one leadership theory among many others. Fortunately, you dont need to go to plastic surgery to become a more attractive leader. Although genetics may assist a leader in supporting his/her calling, our own DNA does not trap us. Tall, attractive, and charismatic leaders may be media magnets in America, but you dont need to concern yourself with that fact. Certainly, not! Our environment plays a part in leadership development. Leaders can learn how to be more effective; however, this desire must come from the leader. The heart of a leader comes from within. A leader does need to possess a positive charisma so that he/she can demonstrate confidence to followers. Start displaying the right attitude and showcase your attractive leadership! (c) 2006 by Daryl D. Green Reference: Johnson, C. & Hackman, M. (2000). Leadership: A Communication Perspective. Waveland Press. |
