Discussion 9.1

Leadership and empowerment Assignment These quotes on leadership have one major underlying theme: giving others an opportunity to reach their goals. From the quotes, it becomes clear that leaders should not only focus on the results and output of their organizations or departments but need to focus on those they lead. This is best captured by the quote by Jack Welch who argues that for a leader, success is about growing others (Lowe, 2008 p. 8). Based on these quotes, my understanding of leadership is that a leader is one who creates an environment that gives equal opportunities to all and makes everyone in an organization have a sense of belonging and feels appreciated. As a leader, I will use these ideas to shape my personal leadership style in two main ways. First, there is need to encourage information sharing and individual input from all members or employees. It is only through this that I can understand what each individual has to offer, and their unique ideas. Secondly, I will ensure that anyone who requires training or mentoring is provided with such opportunities in order to allow them grow and mature into a better person. I believe that through such actions, I will inspire others to dream and learn more, as captured in the quote by Johnson Quincy Adams (Josephson, 2012).
The quote by Bill Gates really spoke to me. Here, Bill Gates is suggesting that future leaders must be prepared to empower others. This quote challenges me to view the authority and power given to me not as a tool to control others but one that can be used to empower them. This means that effective use of that authority and power will be based on how I have helped people develop into better persons. This requires focusing on each individual person and trying to understand their needs and fears.
References
Covey, S. R. (1991). Principle-Centered Leadership. New York: Simon & Schuster
Josephson, M (2012). Business Ethics & leadership. Josephson Institute Center for Business Ethics. Retrieved from http://josephsoninstitute. org
Lowe, J (2008). Jack Welch Speaks: Wit and Wisdom from the World’s Grates Business Leader. John Wiley & Sons.
Sources of Insight (2011). Lessons Learned from Bill Gates. Retrieved from http://sourcesofinsight. com/lessons-learned-from-bill-gates/