DEVELOPING 21ST CENTURY LEADERSHIP SKILLS
Developing 21st Century Leadership Skills by Peter A. James, PhD, MBA, PCC Leadership Matters More Than Ever As this article is being written in 2022, the world is in a state of flux. Pandemics, social unrest, geopolitical tension, wars, economic uncertainty, and an overall uneasiness have resulted in the need for positive, strong and impactful leadership at all levels of society. Not just in government or business, healthy leadership is desired in all facets of life. Think about it - we all desire individuals who are not afraid to make courageous decisions when needed. However, examples of toxic leadership are those that continue to rise to the surface due to our obsession with negativity via our various media channels. PETER A. JAMES, PhD, MBA, PCC is President and CEO of HCG Consulting Solutions
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HERE, I ATTEMPT NOT TO DEFINE LEADERSHIP or give it an identity that will lock us into one path. The truth is that there is no one-size-fits-all type of leadership. Instead, perhaps leadership should be defined, viewed solely on the outcomes that it provides to its followers. It is important, however, to stress and understand that these outcomes are not always positive. So, if I am a new leader or even a more established leader, what are some things that I can take away from this article that will benefit my journey? How can I learn what is needed moving forward into the 21st century? In this article, we will identify some key points that we can all utilize in order to apply sooner rather than later. I have to warn you, however. After you become aware of these points, they will not be beneficial to you or your sphere of influence unless applied via actions or behaviors. In other words, your reading will be in vain unless you apply the points in a positive form or fashion. The question is . . . are you ready to commit? Are you up for this leadership challenge? 43
