My friend posted a status on facebook, it said,
“The most dangerous leadership myth is that leaders are born — that there is a genetic factor to leadership. In fact, the opposite is true. Leaders are made rather than born – Warren G. Bennis”
A friend of his replied, “I think it depends. Some were born to be leaders, you know. ” I totally disagree. Leaders are always made.
When we see Obama, Steve Jobs and other leaders, we so easily call them ‘born’ leaders. Just like that. If you’re so good, then go to the hospital and show me which babies will become leaders in the future?
There is NO GENETIC FACTOR that determines a leader. Even if there is, what can you do about it, genetics don’t change, unless you want to mess with it by using some new technologies. But why do so when you can do it yourself, you can start by only believing that you can become a leader.
Why is there some leaders who come from the same family? Well, that’s your misconception and flawed assumption. I believe that it is not their genetics but their up-bringing by parents, surroundings growing up, education and experience in life. You see poor families and wealthy families having nice and responsible children who grew up well, but you can also see the opposite happening. Usually, the good families are strong in either religious background or have very strong family & parenting backgrounds. Both offering good education in terms of what is right and wrong, courtesy & ethics and lessons of life, you can say. Important things that ultimately shape the mentality, attitude and that person’s outlook of life.
Of course not only the parent plays a part, but the life experience that a person gets also determines leadership quality. If that person is surrounded by pessimistic people. People who are cynical about leaders and change, then he won’t be able to develop leadership qualities. What a waste right? If only he had better influences from friends.
I’m sure there is too small a part that genetics place in leadership. I myself started developing leadership skills at 17 when I decided not to go with my parents, uncle-aunties & neighbors expectation of what my career should be. This is my life! I make the decisions! And it took me until now to have the courage and enough experience to share it with you guys.
Be. You.
