If you search for a Leadership definition……
here are some examples of what you’ll find:
“Someone who exercises influence over other people.” (Huczynski et al 1993)
“Creating a vision to which others aspire and energising them to work towards that vision” (Anita Roddick)
“Without a Leader, nothing happens…” (Michael Hammer)
“The capacity to create a compelling vision and translate it into action and sustain it.” (Warren Bennis)
Putting various complex models aside, it is pretty clear as to the ingredients to the definition of Leadership:
Urgency
Leadership involves leading, influencing, driving towards goals, and motivating others around them to see and achieve that vision, under their influence.
It is interesting to see the statement above “without a Leader, nothing happens:” Leadership is the fuel to the engine room.
It is the velocity needed to create action, and achieve goals. The Leader creates the urgency and vision to get to the goal, whatever that target is. He/She does this by motivating all team members towards that goal.
Visionary
It is also clear that that Leaders also hold the ability to be able to look into the Horizon – scanning possible future solutions to problems, and not settling for the status quo. They are innovators and visionaries.
Definition
In light of the above, the version I use, which I think is succinct, is as follows:
“The ability to innovate and create a vision for all to see, understand and believe in. The Leader leads by example and creates the urgency and motivation needed to achieve high levels of team success.”