Jul

11

The Physics of Leadership

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One of the laws of physics states that “for every reaction there there is an equal and opposite reaction”. The same is true for leadership, “for every action a leader takes there is a corresponding reaction from followers”. This simple truth is often over-looked by leaders, as leaders we often under estimate the influence we have over followers. I’m often reminded of this in situations where people say to me, “remember when you said ….. to me a few years ago? Well, that caused me to change this in my life”. Usually I don’t remember the exact situation they’re referring to, but it always reminds me, that as leaders, we never know when and what impact we’re having on others. As leaders we often under-estimate our influence.

“A leader leads by example, whether he intends to or not.” - Author Unknown

Usually, it’s the questions we ask, the stories we tell and the example we set, that influence those around us, shaping their thinking and actions. Reflecting on this, what example are we setting for those around us? Are we conscious about what we say and how we act, knowing that we are always influencing others? Are we conscious of the example we’re setting?

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One Response to “The Physics of Leadership”

  1. Steve Farber on July 11th, 2006 23:25

    I agree, George. Most of us don’t really understand how powerful our own example is. Once you step into a leadership role, you step under the microscope and people watch EVERYTHING you do. None of us is perfect; yet, we have to hold ourselves to an even higher standard of behavior than we expect of others.

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