Leaders Must Be Willing To Act

Since leadership often requires making difficult decisions, how come so many "leaders" seem to be afraid to act? Many "leaders" seem to behave as if no action is taken, matters will work themselves out. While in a small
minority of situations, that may turn out to be the case, in the vast majority of cases, leaders need to take some sort of action to remedy situations. Leaders have the option of preemptive action, or simply reacting after the fact. In the past three decades, I have witnessed this dilemma so many times, that I am fully convinced that effective leadership requires understanding the ramifications of potential situations, and taking preemptive action when that possibility is available.

Poorly trained "leaders" are often afraid to act because they suffer from a sort of paralysis, due to their lack of preparedness, effectiveness, and knowledge. When individuals who are not prepared to lead are then thrust into leadership positions and situations, they are often ill-prepared to act. Action requires understanding a situation, and either having the skills and abilities, or surrounding oneself with trusted aides who possess the necessary skill set. Unfortunately, most ill-prepared leaders are unwilling to admit they are ill-prepared, or are so ill-prepared that they do not even realize that they lack the necessities.

Almost no "true leaders" are born leaders. The most effective leaders take the necessary courses, undergo the necessary training, learn the important keys to effective decision making, etc. I have previously written a number of Associated Content articles about decision making, leadership training, and effective leadership. Qualified leaders are few and far between, and any organization blessed enough to have an effective leader, should cherish that leader and utilize the skills of the individual to hopefully train others.

Individuals that are afraid of making decisions or taking proactive action should reconsider leadership positions. Under those circumstances, it is an unfair burden on the individual, and counter-productive to the organization. An integral part of being a leader is courage, and so many "leaders" are afraid, that they feign courage while acting like cowards. Leaders must never take an objection to an idea as a personal condemnation, but rather they should view comments merely as someone elses opinion.

It is not leadership to avoid taking action. It is not leadership to put things off and say "it will all work out." It is not leadership to be unwilling to admit one's shortcomings and strengths. True leaders know themselves, and work out the best way to proactively advance the mission of their organization.