Richard Cox asked:
In today’s world of fast paced life and business, we have a tendency to try and control more and trust people less. Manage the system, and squeeze every last drop of efficiency out of it, often at the cost of the people that are contributing to the creation of the entire operation in the first place.
It does not take much to see the cost of all of this, just take a look around at the state of the world, and you can see the apathy, reluctance to take personal responsibility for the outcomes of our actions, be it at home, at the office or in the world at large.
One of the possibilities of changing all this is to change our focus, and be more upfront with some of the critical issues that are around us. It is so easy to play small and not contribute what you are here to give. You have a unique and powerful aspect to you that nobody else has, and without your developing and giving of this unique gift, the world will not have that as a transformational tool.
Being part of leading the transformation of yourself, others and the world around you can be a daunting and confusing undertaking. Never the less, you seem to be predisposed to taking action in this area. Being a transformational leader means many things, and from the academic perspective, there are 4 specific areas that others can identify you by.
1. Charismatic Leadership, or Idealized Influence.
A Transformational leader is a role model; you are respected and admired by your followers, and they want to emulate you. You have a clear vision and sense of purpose and are willing to take risks.
2. Inspirational Motivation.
Transformational leaders behave in ways that motivate others, generate enthusiasm and challenge people. You clearly communicate expectations and they demonstrate a commitment to goals and have a shared vision.
3. Intellectual Stimulation.
Transformational leaders actively solicit new ideas and new ways of doing things. You stimulate others to be creative and never publicly correct or criticize others.
4. Individualized Consideration.
Transformational leaders pay attention to the needs and the potential for developing others. You establish a supportive climate where individual differences are respected. Others interactions with you are encouraged and you are aware of individual concerns
The above are the characteristics of transformational leadership, yet there are some other elements that have not been addressed. There is also a requirement for authenticity. This is about being who you are at the most fundamental level, and having a very clear understanding of yourself and your life purpose. This gives you a unique and powerful ability to be congruent with who you are in the work that you do. It taps into a power that is unheard of, let alone experienced by most people in this world.