Weekly Thought – August 13, 2024
Fred’s understanding of the delicate balance between art and science in leadership built a foundation for himself and for his mentoring of generations of leaders. He knew the nuances of this interaction and studied examples throughout his lifetime.
Leadership Is Art and Science
There is no valid list of common denominators for leaders, no formula to follow. The ingredients vary with each situation. Sometimes, for instance, leaders must exhibit courage; other times, their decisions are so clear no courage is required.
I could list several “Traits of a Leader,” it would be like assembling all the ingredients for a recipe without giving the proportions and instructions for use of each. A cook may have the proper ingredients but without knowing how to correctly put them together the proper result would rarely occur. The list of leadership ingredients may be seen as science, but the correct use of them is the art of leadership.
For example, knowledge of human nature is a top requirement for leadership. But an effective leader understands the appropriate application of this knowledge. Napoleon was reputed to be one of history’s finest wartime generals. He had precise knowledge of human nature under these conditions. In battle he knew how hard he could push – how far he could go. This was the source of his power. However, he was inadequate in a postwar political environment.
Another example is Winston Churchill whose grasp of wartime emergency management is still considered textbook. However, when he attempted to transfer the same skills afterwards without the same success. Leadership is not a constant science, but a combination of principles and the artful execution based on the study and understanding of human nature.
I am frequently asked if leadership is innate, or a learned skill. I am convinced it can be coached but not implanted. The great violinist Heifetz could be coached, but the underlying giftedness could not be taught. In the early days he could learn to read music, understand rhythms, and patterns. A teacher could instruct him in bowing and fingering. But later, as one great conductor said: “I can only tell him whether he is doing what he tells me he wants to do.” He had taken responsibility for the innate gifts and developed them to the level of virtuoso.
I don’t believe you can make a leader from someone without any inborn leadership. It generally shows up in early years. As you look at three or four year olds you can see emerging patterns of leadership. With proper use, excellent coaching, and opportunities this gift grows. Clearly the art and science of leadership blossoms more fully under the right conditions.
My lifetime goal was “to stretch others.” Key to this mission is my own ability to identify leadership talent, connect them with others who can encourage growth, and be available when asked. Working to mor effectively translate the concept of art and science is also a critical element in the use of my leadership gifting.
This week carefully consider: 1) Where do I see leadership gifts in myself? 2) How am I working to develop growth in my clearer understanding of effective leadership? 3) Who exhibits leadership skills that I can encourage?
Words of Wisdom: “Leadership is both art and science.”
Wisdom from the Word: “He has filled him with the Spirit of God – with skill, with understanding, with knowledge, and in all kinds of work.” (Exodus 35:31 NET Bible)