It seems as though everyone has something to say about leadership - even if what they are saying is based on misunderstanding and misconception. Sometimes we accept ideas as facts and let them rule our behaviors without taking the time to really think about them. Therefore, when we hear people saying this or that about leadership, we may be tempted to just accept it as truth. This is unfortunate, as leadership is something everyone could use a little more in their lives, whether it is at work, with their families or in the sports community.
             Webster's defines a leader as simply being, a person or thing that leads. While leadership is defined as being the function or position of a leader, but it is more complex than that. Leadership is a behavior we exert when we take responsibility for our actions and their consequences. It is about being accountable when we assume responsibility for guiding others. Leadership is often the difference between success and failure. It is what separates the doers from the observers, and it is what gives positive direction to individuals and organizations.
             However complex or simple the definition may seem to an individual, leadership becomes much more complicated when attempting to define the origin of leaders. In other words, where do leaders come from? Are they born or made?
             It is impossible to decide one way or the other without appreciating the fact that there must be integration of both parts before arriving at a conclusion. Most of the world's best leaders were born with certain highly developed characteristics, such as an extraordinary high level of ambition, a special instinct and a favourable charisma. In addition, leaders share a group of common characteristics that have everything to do with personality and nothing to do with position. Even so, an individual cannot anoint him/herself a leader. Leadership is an honorary degree, which can only be bestowed by those who are ...