I have found the first three chapters interesting and challenging my own thought of leadership. As discussed din Chapter 1 – “The bottom line is that leadership is a complex concept for which a determined definition may long be in flux (Northouse, pg. 4, 2012)” I find myself realizing that there just may not be a “cookie cut out” formula that can be administer to a potential leader. In chapter 2, I was torn between several leadership traits to choose from as we all seem to have slight variances of each of the five mentioned (Intelligence • Integrity • Self-confidence • Sociability • Determination) . In chapter three, I came tot he realization that the world has become much different than the time I began elementary school, where the psychodynamic approach probably had its greatest foothold. As mention in the readings, the times have changed from the industrial age to the technological age, which changes the definition and image of the “leader.” The leader no longer has to be a specific build, size, color, look or event have a specific degree; the leader may be the product of self development, and with a non traditional education.
Alexys Scott
From your post comment, “The leader no longer has to be a specific build, size, color, look or event have a specific degree; the leader may be the product of self development, and with a non traditional education.” This statement is very true in today’s dynamic world. When you think that leadership is a process, that can be taught to anyone regardless to background. I have mostly considered leadership as a trait, “He is born to be a leader” (Northouse, 2013, p.7), but I’m now understanding the process concept.
Kevin
References:
Northouse, P.G. (2013). Leadership Theory and Practice (6th ed.) Thousand Oaks, CA: SAGE Publications Inc.
I have to agree with you in the fact that leadership is not an easily definable thing. Leadership if very dynamic and changes with different situations. I also think you are right that leadership will continue to change with the ever changing world we live in. At the dawn of man leadership may have been simple however in todays world it is very complicated. Leaders of today can take many paths to becoming a leader. Some are taught such as military leaders and others are emergent leaders who rely more on their inherent ability (Northouse, 2013). None the less leadership is very complex and interesting subject. I think good leaders have to realize this and strive to find ways to better understand them selves and learn new ways to affectively apply their skills. In a changing world leadership will need to adapt to the changes.
VR,
David
References:
Northouse, P.G. (2013). Leadership theory and practice (6th ed.). Thousand Oaks, CA: SAGE Publications Inc.