There's nothing more demoralizing than a leader who can't clearly articulate why we're doing what we're doing.
James M. KouzesIf you think you're a leader and you turn around and no one is following you, then you're simply out for a walk.
James M. KouzesThe word "story" is short for the word "history." They both have the same root and fundamentally mean the same thing. A story is a narrative on an event or series of events, just like history.
James M. KouzesLeadership is a relationship between those who aspire to lead and those who choose to follow.
James M. KouzesIt is striking how our language reveals the visual nature of our thoughts about the future state of affairs. When we invent the future, we try to get a mental picture of what things will be like long before we have begun the journey. Visions are our windows on the world of tomorrow.
James M. KouzesLeaders strengthen credibility by demonstrating that they are not in it for themselves, instead they have the interests of the institution, department, or team and its constituents at heart. Being a servant may not be what many leaders had in mind when they chose to take responsibility for the vision and direction of their organization or team - but serving others is the most glorious and rewarding of all leadership tasks.
James M. Kouzes