Review by Akinric -- Leadership by Craig B. Whelden
-
- Posts: 2
- Joined: 04 Apr 2020, 20:54
- Currently Reading:
- Bookshelf Size: 0
- Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-akinric.html
- Latest Review: Leadership by Craig B. Whelden
Review by Akinric -- Leadership by Craig B. Whelden
Leadership is a book written by Craig Whelden. In the words of Paul Polman,‘Leadership is not just about giving energy, it’s unleashing other peoples energy.’ I have come across different books on leadership, I must confess this one is exceptional. Born to a military father, Craig Whelden was able to find his mission in life on time, and that’s what many struggles with even at post-adolescent period. The book is carefully penned with the ink of experience,non-fictional illustration and step by step guide on climbing leadership ladder successfully.
There is no gainsaying that the price of greatness is responsibility. History and pages of history have been filled with great leaders who have shown prowess through their personality and intellects. The likes of George Washington, Martin Luther King, Abraham Lincoln and a host of others were distinguished for their leadership roles. This can be attributed to their character. They were ordinary people with extraordinary characters. In this book, Craig Whelden identified some qualities necessary for a leader to make an impact on the sand of the time.
One of the key reasons why leaders succeed is their actions and inactions towards their followers is trust-building. To be successful, a leader must trust his subordinates. According to Craig Whelden, ‘the best way to trust people is by trusting them, without this, you can never know the extent of their loyalty and capacity.’ This gives them a sense of belief and confidence that they can deliver the expected results. Followed closely is the need for mentorship. Every leader must be ready to mentor their subordinates’ in whatever position or circumstances. Leaders should learn to maximize strength and mitigate the weakness of their followers. In doing so, leaders should also learn to delegate where necessary.
Every aspiring leader must aspire and strive to reach an achievable feat in their career. Setting goals from the onset helps to keep track of progress and eventually giving direction to a course of action. Everyone have callings and such comes with sacrifice. Mankind is unique in their own space no matter how little it might look. Certain role or space might look small looking as if the existence is not necessary, time put everything to test. Everyone should contribute their own quota in their little way. A chain is as strong as its weakest link.
One of my favourite part of the book is the part titled “Memento Mori” literally meaning “remember you are mortal.” We should be accountable in our actions because nothing is permanent in life. Humility and integrity are key points in being accountable simply because the world does not revolve around you as a leader. Bringing his experience in the military into every point, a leader must be proactive and always a step ahead in times of crisis. Though the crisis often comes with great danger but yet, there is always opportunity when examined meticulously. He gave brief eye account on the 9/11 attack on the pentagon, why leaders must always be ready for a crisis when least expected and the need to take responsibilities for our actions whether palatable or sour.
Little things in life matters, maybe not to everybody but some. Leaders should learn to celebrate people and their subordinates’ victory. It always comes with respect for such individual showing you care about their progress and achievement. Leadership is about reaching out to all those in your spheres of influence and demonstrating that you care about them. Leaders will always face problem, patience, however, is required to overcome difficult circumstances. When family priorities with professional aspirations, is family really important? Families are natures greatest gift, this implies that family comes first every time. Furthermore, having another option otherwise called ‘plan b’ is quite essential in life so as not to be stranded in the long run. The world is laced with uncertainties and no one knows what the next step might yield. It’s important to always have the second option just in case the goddess of luck decides to make the misery of a fellow.
I rate this book 4 out of 4 stars. It’s not about just writing, the question is did you walk the talk? Craig Whelden did a good and comprehensive write up in the book ‘Leadership'. No foul language or profane words used and it was professionally edited. It's highly recommended not only for leaders but for everyone.
******
Leadership
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon
-
- Posts: 845
- Joined: 11 Mar 2020, 05:13
- Currently Reading:
- Bookshelf Size: 44
- Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-bookreviewmi1111.html
- Latest Review: Creating Literary Stories: A Fiction Writer's Guide by William H. Coles
Thanks for your review.