Wednesday, July 2, 2008
Ch 9. Habits of Character
In the book, Jim Collins recognizes what makes the highest qualities of leadership. He titles his theory the habits of character. He also states that the most important habit that promotes character as well as the most essential quality in a leader is modesty. Collins states that no matter how extravagent, miraculous or extreme something is completed, modesty and humility are what makes the action complete. I agree with this theory and even more applaud the six ideas blended by Beverly Alimo-Metcalfe and John Alban-Metcalf. These six ides cover all of the genuine importance of being a strong and successful leader. From valuing individuals concerns, acting with integrity and honesty and being decisive I feel like these hit the nail on the head in the criteria someone should have to lead an organization. These qualities cannot necessarily be taught and absorbed, but rather it takes a special person to have a majority of these in them already. Often times a leader allows money and fame to get to their head without remembering the key of being humble. Sorry to all the Giants fans out there, but allow me to make Barry Bonds my example. Before leaving the Giants Bonds was seen as a leader for his team. However, he lacked all these qualities. He was one of the most conceited and cocky individuals in sports that I have ever seen play. He played for himself, only trying to accomplish a record and not concerned about the wins for the team. He never hustled in the outfield when a ball was hit to him, nor was he humble with fans.
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2 comments:
I have to agree that the six ideas behind Jim collins theory of habits of character are needed for a strong and successful leader. Without these traits, you just have an average joe, how can the average joe lead a bunch of other average Joes and be successful? My feeling is they can't. They need someone who has honesty, integrity, values, etc to help make everyone else successful in their own special way. They need to be inspired by someone who is a strong character.
I really agree with your example of Barry Bonds. Here is someone who has so much potential to positively lead. Unfortunately, Bonds was selfish and contrary to his own personal belief, not strong. A leader must be complex, as demonstrated with the ideas Jim Collins has outlined. One cannot work and improve on others until they have crafted themselves first. A leader must appreciate not only the big picture, but the little aspects as well.
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