Mar 31, 2007

The Leadership Paradox

The Leadership Paradox

Daniel Goleman, authority on emotional intelligence in organizations, says "For leaders, the first task in management has nothing to do with leading others; step one poses the challenge of knowing and managing oneself. He calls this the Leadership Paradox.

This includes:
- Connecting with the deep values that guide us
- Imbuing our actions with meaning
- Aligning our emotions with our goals
- Keeping ourselves motivated
- Keeping ourselves focused and on task

When we act in accord with these inner measures, we feel good about what we do. Such emotions are contagious. When we as a leader feel positive, energized, and enthusiastic about our work, so do those we influence. But we can only maintain high effectiveness when we are able to manage the cycles of sacrifice and renewal.


Leadership Power Stress: (Part 2) Three Keys to Renewal