More than once during my readings this semester, I have read the thought that we have become a flat world in terms of society. (I'm glad that we haven't just learned that it's flat for real because I'd wonder about the pictures from the many trips to space.) From a mathematical stand point, I interpret that to mean that we have straight lines that connect us from one end to the next. From a leadership standpoint, it says to me that no matter where you lead and how distant those you lead are, you lead with some common gifts -- with soul; with five minds of discipline, synthesis, creativity, respect and ethically; with love for your employees and a realm of transparency. What it tells me is that there are qualities and behaviors in a leader that are global; characteristics that impact followers no matter the distance from one point to the other.
Did Columbus lead with these qualities and behaviors when he convinced others to follow him and eventually state that the world was round?
6 comments:
Your statement is timely for me as I just watched a television program yesterday that stated that the legend of Columbus is just that a legend. It stated that society already knew that the world was round. As the story goes Columbus sail the the ocean blue in 1792 (I think)...and not only discovered the "new world" but also discovered the world was round. This is very intreseting because the globe was created in the 1400's. things that make you go hmmm!!!
When the ledgend becomes fact print the legend.
Columbus, at the very least, was persistant. He was denied over and over again to pursue his dream, but he never quit. Sometimes, as leaders, being persistant is the most important thing. A leader can't give up when met with resistance or when they are denied.
As I was watching some of the leadership videos this week, one asked: Who is your favorite leader? Mom, Dad, your children. It does not always have to be the CEO. I have always found my father to be a great spiritual leader for my family, and my mother a quiet leader supporting him.
Another quote from the videos I watched was: Leadership done wrong is memorable; so it is when done right.
I agree Traci. I think the flat world analogy relates to a single minded thought process rather than global thinking. There are many ways we as leaders impact our staff and students.
Interesting reflection. History is truly in the eye of the recorder or story-teller. By the way, Jason, columbus sailed the ocean blue in 1492. Do you think he had seen that "new-fangled" globe and set out to prove it wasn't so?
Yes Dr. Kemp I realize now it was 1492. I never was a history buff. After I reflected on my postings I thought how could Columbus sail the ocean blue in 1792 that is after The United States was established. My mistake. You could be right he could have set out to prove the new fangled globe was right.
Post a Comment