Can Leadership Be Learned?

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Accepted Answer

Studies show that leadership can be learned. Dr. Taylor, professor emeritus at Oregon Health and Science University School of Medicine, put it this way, "Successful leadership is not a mystery, accessible only to individuals born with the charisma and power drive of Napoleon. It is within your reach."[i] Dr. Taylor holds that leadership can be learned, although some may be naturally more inclined to the work of a leader than others. Leadership, Taylor explains, involves defining and sharing a vision. Leaders must be comfortable with the theoretical, and willing to take risks. In this way, leadership is different from management: "The pure leader 'lives in the middle of next year'... The pure manager lives in the here-and-now... Leadership involves communicating a vision. Management is the implementation of another’s vision. To speak metaphorically, leaders build castles in the sky for the managers to live in and run."[ii] Other research has agreed with Dr. Taylor. In fact, the general consensus is that leadership can be learned.[iii] While you may not be able to significantly change your personality, or your innate strengths and weaknesses, leadership skills can be developed, and anyone who is willing to put in the time and the effort can learn to become a good leader.

Tag: talent development

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Can Leadership Be Learned?