The Law of Ambition
Leaders
have an intense desire to lead; they have a clear vision of a better future,
which they are determined to realize. Vision is the one common quality that
separates leaders from non-leaders. Leaders have a clear picture of the kind of
future they want to create, and they have the ability to communicate this
vision to others in an exciting and inspiring way.
Key Responsibility of Leadership
People
may work steadily for a paycheck, but they perform at high levels only when
they are inspired by a vision of some kind. The development and articulation of
this vision is a key responsibility of leadership.
Leaders Visualize
Leaders
have the ability to visualize, to see the big picture and then to inspire
others to work together to make it a reality. The true leader sees leadership
as a tool he or she can use to bring about a result that is bigger and more
important than any single individual.
Become a Leader
You
become a leader when you set a goal, make a plan, and then throw your whole
heart into making it a reality. You become a leader when you develop an
inspiring vision for yourself and others. You become a leader when you know
exactly where you want to go, why you want to get there, and what you have to
do to achieve your vision.
Leaders Explain
Leaders
can explain clearly to other people what it is they are trying to accomplish,
why they are trying to accomplish it, and how they are going to bring it about.
They are eager to get results and they are impatient with delays. They are
excited about what they are doing, and as a result, they get other people
excited as well. Leaders have goals, plans, and strategies that they are
working to implement every day. They are in a hurry. They have a lot to do and
they feel that they have too little time.
Clarity
Perhaps
the most important part of ambition is clarity on the part of the leader. The
leader has a clear vision, clear values, a clear vision, and clear, written
goals, plans, and strategies for his or her department or organization. Most of
all, leaders want to lead, to be in charge, to be responsible, to make things
happen. They are willing to endure the risks and the sacrifices that are required
to make a real difference in their worlds.
Action Exercise
Determine
a clear vision for yourself and your organization. Where would you ideally like
to be in three to five years? Define it clearly. Write it down. Share it with
others. The more clear and specific you are about your future vision for
yourself and your company, the more you will accomplish and the better and more
effective leader you will become.
