Adjusting with Richard Kwarteng Ahenkorah: Discard Shoulder Pads, Incinerate Knee Pads
In 2017, a leadership workshop and networking seminar was held at Cape Coast, Ghana, where two main issues were discussed. First, why and how do leaders often become dictators? Second, why do leaders frequently hesitate to make bold decisions? During the session, participants learned, unlearned, and re-learned essential leadership skills.
I shared with the attendees that democracy significantly decreases a leader's power, albeit it does not eliminate their authority and responsibility. Most leaders struggle to share power, which hinders their ability to make well-informed decisions. According to Armstrong (2004), leaders must learn to manage teams effectively and share their decision-making process. This involves allowing teams to contribute to leadership decisions through various methods, such as team meetings, briefs, and staff mixers.
Adopting a servant leadership mindset is crucial for the 21st-century leaders. They should act selflessly, focusing on their teams' needs and the long-term health of the organization. By proactively identifying, mentoring, and connecting with emerging leaders from various levels, leaders can empower others to share responsibilities effectively.
Leaders in the 21st century must cultivate humility, confidence, wisdom, and fearlessness, as these qualities are essential for navigating the complexities of the modern world. A humble mindset is crucial, as leaders must continuously learn and stay open to growth. Emotional intelligence (EQ) is also vital, as it allows leaders to connect authentically with their teams.
Leaders must learn to make bold yet informed decisions while maintaining a balance between risk and stewardship. Fearlessness is key, as leaders must trust their judgment and be willing to face challenges with wisdom and determination. By fostering a culture of learning and adaptability, leaders can ensure their organizations remain resilient and ready for disruptions.
In conclusion, modern leaders should adopt a servant leadership mindset, cultivate personal attributes, harness emotional intelligence, share power, make bold decisions, and foster a culture of learning and adaptability to navigate the complexities of the 21st century effectively. These essential qualities will enable leaders to make courageous decisions, embody humility, confidence, wisdom, and fearlessness.
- In the realm of business careers, a crucial report highlights the importance for leaders to embrace a servant leadership mindset, acting selflessly and focusing on their teams' needs.
- Pivotal to development in the 21st century, leaders are advised to ensure their education-and-self-development encompasses emotional intelligence, a vital attribute for authentic connections with teams.
- To foster personal growth and overcome the challenge of becoming dictators, leaders must learn to share power and make informed decisions, balancing risk and stewardship.
- Demonstrating courage and fearlessness in decision-making, while maintaining humility and wisdom, will empower leaders to shape their organizations effectively, following the principles laid out in the leadership workshop.
