The principles of leadership have changed little over time. Whether you were part of an ancient civilisation, a modern industry or army, the basic principles have not changed. It is independent of geography and culture.
A typical dictionary definition would be, ‘the process of ruling, guiding or inspiring others’.
Others would say that it embodies particular attributes.
Many people have commented on leadership some light hearted, some cynical and some more profound.
Some examples are:
‘Leadership should be born out of the understanding of the needs of those who would be affected by it.’
(Marian Anderson, born 27th February 1897 – died 8th April 1993).
Marian Anderson spent most of her life fighting against racial prejudice whilst gaining recognition as a contralto singer.
She was awarded the UN Peace Prize in 1972.
‘In the simplest terms, a leader is one who knows where he wants to go, and gets up, and goes.’
(John Erskine, born 5th October 1879 – died 2nd June 1951)
John Erskine was born in New York. A US educationalist, novelist and concert pianist.