Nine Practices of 21st Century Leadership, 2nd Edition

Chapter 2Defining 21st Century Leadership

DOI: 10.4324/9781003273448-3

Sometimes leadership is imagined to be something majestic and awe-inspiring. Grand visions, world-changing initiatives, transforming the lives of millions—all are noble possibilities, but real leadership is in the daily moments.¹

Kouzes and Posner

Leadership, more than anything else, is about the way we think. It’s a moment-to-moment discipline of our thoughts. It’s about practicing personal accountability and choosing to make a positive contribution, no matter what our role or “level.” A receptionist, an engineer, a sales person, a temp, a cashier: They all can be leaders.²

Miller

Introduction

This chapter defines 21st Century Leadership and elaborates on its components ...