“Someday I want to be a professional leader” proclaimed a particularly enthusiastic young man at the conclusion of one of our recent leadership development workshops. I was delighted to hear his eager exclamation while, at the same time, somewhat intrigued by his use of the word “professional”. I’m sure that he equated this term to adjectives such as accomplished, proficient and skilled, but I wonder if it is really the best word to describe the kind of leader to which he aspires. Maybe he should set his sights on a higher target…that of becoming an amateur leader. Read on…
In a recent interview, U.S. Navy Adm. Mike Mullen, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff shared two insights he received when he was promoted to Admiral. The first was that the new Admiral would eat better food than he had ever eaten before in the Navy. The second, and more ominous advice, was that in his new position, he would never again be told the full truth by those serving underneath him. His new rank changes everything. People will now ask themselves “What should I say?” rather than “What does he need to hear?” 
It’s become very stylish these days to write about the appalling “lack of leadership”, especially during these challenging times. This is understandable - when the going gets tough, we often point the finger upwards and blame it on “them”. You sometimes see this with sports teams that are struggling and under the pressure of losing; they often then turn on their coaches. 
