I just read a review of Herman Cain’s Book, Leadership is Common Sense. I am admitting to not reading the book; though I am sure it is good. I am becoming a product of my time so I rarely read anything that is over 140 characters in length. I realize that my writing submissions must be a minimum of 400 words, so I am also admitting to not reading all of my own articles. (I am sure that it is obvious to those copy editors out there). The review describes three attributes that Mr. Cain feels are essential to good leadership, happiness, a willingness to take risks, and ability to focus. I love simplicity and three attributes is a good number. Again, the book may have listed 50, but since I did not actually read the book I will assume that three is good enough. I intend to give my thoughts on these three elements.
Happiness seems in short supply these days. Economic issues, a declining standard of living, and a population that is prepared to amass in protest are indicators that support this notion. A leader that maintains a happy attitude is essential as his or her followers often assume the characteristic nature of the one they follow. Happy leaders lead to happy employees which leads to happy customers. End of story.
The second attribute that the review of Mr. Cain’s book said a leader needed was a willingness to take risks. The world is changing as rapidly as ever. Leaders that attempt to hold back change or deny that it exists, are destined to fail. Can anyone say Eastman Kodak? Leaders need to accept that challenges that their organizations face and navigate through them. This includes taking calculated risks and leading the flock through changes that are not enticing. Leaders need to get people to a destination they did not know existed.
The last attribute that the review of Mr. Cain’s book said that a leader needed was an ability to focus. The world is full of distractions. Sorting out the static and maintaining the direction of an organization takes tremendous focus. Leaders need to be able to personally filter out static and illuminate the necessary for their followers.
I like the three attributes that the review of Herman Cain’s book, Leadership is Common Sense, says are essential to leadership. I appreciate that there are other qualities that could have been included in the book, and for all I know they might have been, because, again, I did not read the book.