Leadership By Encouragement

Leadership By Encouragement [Book Excerpt] This is a book about leadership. Being a leader is not defined by one's vertical position in the organizational chart. True leadership is often more truly demonstrated at the lower levels of the company pecking order. While the examples in this book focus primarily on business-oriented situations, leaders in all aspects of life, including home, school, church or synagogue, volunteer and service agencies, mental health agencies, etc., can benefit from the generic skill of encouragement, which is the cornerstone of this book. This book is organized to move the reader from a general overview of leadership in organizations to a specific description of the who, what, when, where, and why of the subtle philosophy and the demonstrable skill of encouragement. "The key element in good business management is emotional attitude. The rest is mechanics." Harold Geeneen "Every vital organization thrives because it depends more on commitment and enthusiasm than on the letter of the contract." Max DePree The encouraged person has a broader perspective and is able to develop new and unlimited vantage points. He or she is able to see both sides of a situation and his or her ability to consider possible solutions is not constricted. Our ability to see in perspective is greatly enhanced by out self-esteem and self -confidence and by recognizing our own strengths and resources. When we see how our resources can be used, our enthusiasm is stimulated. When our perspective is wider, we see possibilities and recognize options. We feel empowered to make choices and decisions...