Source/Credit: The Malta Independent Online: By Caroline Galea 14.08.2011/Photo: Google images
I never cease to be amazed by how one comment from a colleague or even a complete stranger can set my mind racing in a multitude of different directions. This happened to me recently when during a social gathering the person next to me asked me whether I though it possible that a leader would still find the time and patience to listen… and listen properly!
Can someone at the helm of a group, an organisation, an authority or department, a political party or even government possibly manage to hear everyone’s views and finally make that ultimate decision that would reflect all the opinions of the group that he or she leads? Evidently the answer is no!
A good leader should listen to all voiced opinions, measure the pros and cons and ultimately show his or her true leadership by taking the final step and pronouncing the final decision. This is no mean feat and requires courage and more than an ounce of determination. It is by no means easy to establish the mark of a good leader but this is especially so when it comes to taking crucial decisions which may draw thunderous applause from part of the group and disappointment from the remaining half. A win win situation is rare to come by and achieving that delicate balance of acceptance from the whole group is the trademark of a fine leader.
Today’s democratisation of society calls for modern leaders who do not impose the law or proceed without consultation. We demand strong, driven leaders but we would hate it if they bulldozed over us. Our much worked for freedom of the individual means that we have the privilege of being able to offer our opinions, sentiments and criticisms via a multitude of mediums directly to the person on top. This of course has the benefit of providing a wide spectrum of opinions to whoever is leading but does not in any way remove any of the responsibility that the leader has to make when weighing his or her final choices.
Categories: Malta