There is no One-size-fits-all Approach to Being an Effective Leader in Optometry

The concept of leadership has been explored by many scholars over the years, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach to being an effective leader. One key characteristic of great leaders is their ability to show up, rather than show off. As legendary martial artist, Bruce Lee famously said, “Showing off is the fool’s idea of glory.” True leaders demonstrate their leadership through action, rather than grandstanding or self-promotion. They work alongside their team to achieve goals and are quick to attribute success to the collective effort of the group. In contrast, fake leaders who show off and rely on their titles rather than their abilities often create false illusions and try to impose their authority on others, rather than inspiring confidence and raising the performance of their team.

According to an article in Forbes, great leaders also prioritize authenticity and honesty, starting by defining facts and reality rather than inventing scenarios to make themselves look good. They understand that success is built through hard work and collaboration, and they don’t rely on their titles to get things done. Instead, they lead by example and inspire others to follow in their footsteps. Additionally, great leaders are great servants, committed to their responsibility and willing to do whatever it takes to achieve their goals. They don’t rely on phony speeches to deceive audiences, but instead bring results and attributes that speak for themselves.

In contrast, fake leaders are often identified by their lack of authenticity and their tendency to prioritize their own interests over those of the team. A Harvard Business Review article highlights the importance of being able to identify and avoid fake leaders, who can be toxic to a team and hinder productivity. We often fall prey to hiring superstar leaders even if they are toxic and undermine their detrimental consequences to other employees and the business.

Great leaders, on the other hand, are constantly recruiting and developing new leaders who share their passion for making a positive impact in the world. They are not motivated by occupying positions of power but by a deep-seated desire to effect positive change and improve the lives of those around them.

There is a gray area between a real leader and an impostor that can be reduced by researching literature and applying critical thinking. A 2008 article in the Journal of Business Ethics emphasizes the importance of developing true leaders in organizations for long-term success and sustainability. It serves as a guiding light for students and those starting their careers to embed relevant qualities into their thought processes and organizational culture.

The article explains how organizations end up with impostors as leaders. It suggests that the fault lies within the organization for failing to identify real leaders. Impostors often have self-serving strategies, including nepotism, backstabbing, and deception, to gain a leadership position. Once appointed, they use their leadership role for self-aggrandizement, engage in internal warfare, and surround themselves with docile flatterers. They falsify data and exaggerate their own achievements, ultimately leading to the organization’s destruction.

In conclusion, the qualities of great leaders are many, but perhaps the most important is their ability to show up, lead by example, and inspire others through their actions rather than their words. By prioritizing authenticity, honesty, and a deep commitment to serving others, great leaders are able to achieve remarkable success and create lasting positive change in their organizations and communities.