Acting as a leader or participant aiming to accomplish worthy goals requires both vision and courage.
In any moment when a worthy vision is extraordinary, and its mere articulation seems brave, the expression itself can feel satisfyingly courageous. But, if the check goes in the box — “Done” — the follow-through is forestalled and the action does not materialize, the vision evaporates in the mediocre experience of associating with worthy-visionary-words-without-courageous-action. Deeply disappointing. The vapor of hope.Real leadership entails courageous action with benefits for many.
Today, everyone in a position of authority is called a “leader,” so the word has lost precision. Duplicitous “leaders” articulate human values and worthy goals while authorizing cultures of fear and apprehension. Such ironic behavior lacks the congruence of real leadership.
Real leadership entails courageous actions that benefit many. We call for discerning conversations about accountability and for acts of courageous fulfillment that pave the way to making worthy visions manifest in organizations of any size. With culture change and accountability, significant strategic and tactical planning is often the difference between mediocrity and sustained brilliance.
Convert values into appreciable action. Do the right thing! Be the leader you aspire to see.