"Whatever is at the center of something has a lot to do with its quality, whether it is fruit, golf balls, or leadership. I think the core of leadership is hope. Leadership is the hope that we can change the things that need to be changed and create what we cannot now imagine. Hope gives us the courage to move forward, the power to forgive, and the grace to keep the promises we have made. Hope dispels fears. Hope readies us for round two. Hope holds our heads above water and gives us permission to regroup when we are tired. Hope redeems mistakes and prompts the optimism and resilience of a leader. To lead well, we must possess the strong belief that our best days are ahead of us. Hope and leadership are inexorably linked." --Nancy Ortberg, Unleashing the Power of Rubber Bands: Lessons in Non-Linear Leadership
What are you hoping for?
I love this entry. Hope is one of my favorite things in the whole world . . . It's gotten me through some tough stuff but I never thought of it in regards to leadership. I think I need to read her book!!!
Posted by: Cathy Cuny | November 13, 2008 at 08:26 AM