Within the realm of management studies, a multitude of scholars have crafted various perspectives on Leadership. The fundamental theme unifying these viewpoints primarily centers on a leader’s capacity to steer their followers in willingly achieving predetermined goals. This underscores the requirement for leaders to exhibit a disposition that spurs followers to collaboratively strive for the organization’s mutual objectives.
According to Stephen P. Robbins (1990: 302), “Leadership is the ability to influence groups toward the achievement of goals”. This definition embodies most definitions in one way or another. It inherently brings in the aspect of the leader invariably “personally” appealing to the people being led. The way this is done has everything to do with the leader’s attitude.
After briefly outlining the proposed definition of leadership, the paper proceeds to establish a connection between leadership efficacy, or lack thereof, and the leader’s attitude, previously referred to as demeanour. While leadership is commonly perceived as impacting subordinates, it’s noteworthy that the influence an individual exerts extends intriguingly to superiors, colleagues, and subordinates alike. A positive attitude has the power to inspire others to elevate their performance, while the opposite holds true. As per the Cambridge Dictionary, attitude is described as “a sentiment or viewpoint about something, particularly when manifested in one’s conduct.” The central focus of this discourse, then, centers on the significance of a positive attitude.
Positive attitudes encompass numerous qualities that significantly impact leadership effectiveness. Displaying an open and optimistic attitude accentuates a leader’s communication prowess. Operating as an adept communicator, the leader engages in active listening and conveys respect through their interactions. Consequently, this cultivates authenticity in their roles, fosters robust relationships, and contributes to forging a more inclusive work environment.
Much as confidence is critical, humility is an important attribute. A leader’s ability to acknowledge their mistakes, seek feedback, and give credit to their team members is a strong attribute of one’s leadership. This engenders a collaborative and cordial work environment. Therefore, as opposed to the belief that humility in a leader is a sign of weakness, it is instead a strength that should be strived for by any leader. This entails being open-minded and receptive to new ideas and perspectives, from every team member. Team players will be encouraged to think in diverse ways within the team with a willingness to adapt their strategies when necessary.
Closely linked to the leader’s ability to exhibit humility is the need for a leader’s attitude to be service-oriented. Contrary to commonly held notions that humility equates to passivity, it is actually a potent trait found in experienced leaders. The ability to identify issues while retaining empathy constitutes genuine humility. This approach contributes to fostering team members’ confidence. Leaders who focus on supporting and empowering their team members rather than controlling them are more likely to create a high-performing and engaged workforce. It will naturally follow that the morale of individual team players will be enhanced.
For a leader to stand on the premises above, one needs to be confident in themselves and their abilities to lead. Confidence will help foster trust on the part of team members and other stakeholders. Such a leader’s decisions will be inspiring to everyone, because of a positive attitude.
Effective leaders possess emotional intelligence, which involves understanding and managing their emotions and those of others. A leader’s ability to empathize and connect with their team members fosters trust and better relationships. This coupled with a positive attitude can be contagious and stimulating. An optimistic outlook even in difficult situations inspires team members and fosters a resilient and motivated work environment. A leader needs to display resilience when met with challenges and setbacks. By exemplifying determination and persistent dedication, they motivate their teams to navigate difficulties and remain steadfast in their pursuit of goals.
An optimistic mindset, when coupled with a distinct and captivating vision, has the power to spark inspiration and drive among team members, propelling them to collaborate toward a shared objective. Leaders who skillfully express a compelling vision offer their team a clear sense of orientation and meaning.
Amidst a rapidly shifting world, it is crucial for leaders to display flexibility and a willingness to adopt fresh strategies and technologies. Embracing change and staying dedicated to constant learning equips leaders to effectively navigate their teams through ever-changing circumstances.
In conclusion, leadership is intricately connected to and shaped by the attitude of the leader. A positive demeanor propels team members to have greater faith in their abilities, motivating them to surpass their own boundaries. Eminent German scholar, Karl Max, observed in 1875 that “Leadership is not centered around wielding authority, but around tending to those under your care.” To achieve this, leaders must consciously opt to acknowledge and value the contributions of each team member. The antithesis of a positive attitude will invariably have undesirable outcomes on team performance. For Dave Boreham, one of the Chapters in his book, Have, Do, Be Anything You Want aptly puts it by saying “Attitude Determines Altitude”.
Teams guided by leaders exhibiting a positive attitude can effectively navigate and conquer any obstacle in their path, emerging as winners. Conversely, a pessimistic approach from leaders can swiftly result in the attrition of top performers who don’t experience recognition and confidence in their roles.
Chabota Nketani