Definition Of Leadership

The definition of leadership varies from person to person. There are tons of theories on leadership styles to consider.

"The only definition of a leader is someone who has followers." - Peter Drucker

"Leadership is a function of knowing yourself, having a vision that is well communicated, building trust among colleagues, and taking effective action to realize your own leadership potential." - Warren Bennis

“Likewise, leadership, when performed from the same perspective, is about accessing and operating from a "deeper force" related to the "capacity to live in the world you want to create" and bringing your full self into the present moment, "because love is about presence. It's about showing up and being present." - Dr. Peter M. Senge*

Mandela: His 8 Lessons of Leadership

1. Courage is not the absence of fear — it's inspiring others to move beyond it

2. Lead from the front — but don't leave your base behind

3. Lead from the back — and let others believe they are in front

4. Know your enemy — and learn about his favorite sport

5. Keep your friends close — and your rivals even closer

6. Appearances matter — and remember to smile

7. Nothing is black or white

8. Quitting is leading too

Mandela 8 Lessons of Leadership Time.com

Further readings to include for the definition of leadership:

Models of Leadership and Power in Nelson Mandela’s Long Walk to Freedom,

Delivered to the American Political Science Association August 31-Sept. 3, 2006

Mandela: Leadership lessons from the great man

by Frank Meintjies**

The Leadership Principles of Buckminster Fuller

*Conversation with Dr. Peter M. Senge

MIT Center For Organizational Learning

May 15, 1996

Claus Otto Scharmer

**Based in Johannesburg, South Africa, Frank Meintjies has worked in the public, private and not-for-profit sectors. With Edgar Pieterse, he has edited Voices of the Transition, a text dealing with key issues, crucial debates and hopeful visions regarding South Africa's democracy. He is also author of Sideview, a collection of columns and articles dealing with transformation issues. In addition, Meintjies is co-founder of Isandla, a development think tank (www.isandla.org.za) geared to enhancing innovation in development. He has, furthermore, contributed over the years to debates on cultural matters.