To The Editor:
Good leaders make people feel that they’re at the very heart of the process, not at the periphery. Everyone feels that he/she makes a difference to the success of the project. When that happens people feel centered and that gives their life meaning.
The most dangerous leadership myth is that leaders are born, that there is a genetic factor to leadership. This myth asserts that people simply have certain charismatic qualities or not. That’s nonsense. In fact the opposite is true. Leaders are made, rather than born. Failing organizations, private or public, are usually over managed and under led.
Leadership is an art and science. It is an art because it continually evolves, changes form, and requires creativity. It is a science because there are certain essential principles and techniques required. A good leader knows when it is time to change shape because they are highly attentive to those around them.
Coming from a position of strength, a great leader takes risks by freeing up the creative genius of his followers to build their capacity and multiply their talents for the enrichment of everyone. This leads to community and greatness. This valuable resource is missing completely with some local leaders. I say that with all due respect.
Finally, by resonating a vision that animates, motivates and inspires others, a great leader is able to transform his or her position, organization and community. With that, a good leader needs to be able to laugh; a great leader needs to be able to laugh at one’s self.
Is there such a person that is now before us on the township committee, the school board, our county or state legislature? Or just maybe we have some new potential with a new and better vision. I say we must carefully select our leaders based on character, integrity, leadership ability, and community building skills.
Our lives begin to end the day we remain silent about the things that matter most. What this township should keep out is old visions, old ideas, old attitudes and old behaviors.
BRUCE BETHUNE
Whitesboro
Cape May – Governor Murphy says he doesn't know anything about the drones and doesn't know what they are doing but he does know that they are not dangerous. Does anyone feel better now?
