Definition of Leadership

By Nancy Kotowski

Leadership is a creative ability that empowers others to make a shared vision a reality.

Leadership is the ability to create an environment in which people are able to learn, grow, and excel. To create such an environment a leader has a set of guiding principles that form the foundation for decision-making. The principled leader earns trust and respect of everyone in the organization and ignites a flame with his/her vision of far-reaching possibility for an organization. The leader sees what the end-product will look like and what must be done for it to become a reality. The leader's vision is clearly articulated to others who are inspired by it. They join together to pursue it with commitment and passion.

As a team is formed, the vision is enhanced and intensified through the contributions of each member. The leader sets high expectations and at the same time is always recognizing and encouraging the talents and abilities of each person. Everyone feels that they belong, experiences the joy of success and accomplishment, and continues to learn, grow, and excel. The team comes to know, value, and depend on each other; a sense of community develops. As a team accomplishes goals and the vision becomes a reality, members clearly know their contributions were a vital part of success. Commitment to the vision emerges as individuals feel pride and ownership of it. The leader earns trust and confidence as he/she lives out the vision and supports each member of the team. The leader is a person who serves others. Along the way, the leader is like wind beneath wings, always seeing great possibility, supporting, and guiding. Mistakes are recognized as a part of learning, growing, and achieving goals; accomplishments are celebrated; humorous events bring laughter and fun. In sum, leadership is a creative ability that empowers others to make a shared vision a reality.