Leadership is defined as ‘the process in
which an individual influences the group of individuals to attain a
common goal’. The goal is attained by mutual cooperation and cohesive
behaviour. A leader infuses a sense of positivity and directs others to
reach the specified goal.
Various theories since years have been
formulated by psychologists to explain the traits of a leader. Certain
traits of a good leader were listed by the researchers as:
intelligence, extraversion, and adjustment, openness to experience,
general self-efficacy and conscientiousness. It has been inferred that
an individual possessing these traits results as a good leader.
Another theory suggests that great
events lead an ordinary individual to emerge as a leader. Then there is
a third theory which emphasises that leadership is a transformation or
a process. Anyone can become a leader by learning the leadership
skills.
A leader is someone who stands not only
for his cause but takes responsibility and motivates other individuals
also. There is a clear difference between being a boss and a leader. A
leader is a motivation for others and inspires individuals to aim high
and attain that aim. However a boss only supervises over his
subordinates. Power naturally comes to a leader but that power is not a
tool of leader.
Rather if one tries to control the
circumstances with power it turns out to be authoritarian or even
suppressive in its expression.
Leadership is not a quality but it is an
individual’s behaviour. A leader showcases a positive attitude and
high self esteem. He assertively works towards the goal but never gets
pushy for it. A continuous self study, training, evaluation and
imbibing positive things in life develop the characteristics of a
leader.
Situations are never in our hands but
reaction is always that we can control. A leader not only reacts
positively but also helps other members of the group to see the
brighter side of the picture.
It has also been noticed that only those
persons are considered as good leaders who have gained the trust and
confidence of their subordinates. Communication plays a vital role in
this regard. The other thing that people respect is knowledge.
Proficiency in subject is the main
driving force. The next factor is the execution of idea. A leader
always executes the things effectively. He works as a team and team
welfare is his primary goal. A leader is looked upon by his
subordinates critically also. A man of high moral values and integrity
can only become a good leader.
It has always been a matter of
controversy as to what makes an individual different from others. Some
emphasise that is an innate quality while some advocate that it is a
matter of practice only. To sum up, leadership is a quality which is if
present naturally is welcome or otherwise can be developed by
acquiring desired skills.
