The best way to lead people into the future is to connect with them deeply in the present.
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. KouzesYou can't lead others to places you don't want to go yourself. If you don't feel a burning passion for something, how in the world can you inspire and encourage others to share it?
James M. KouzesChallenge is the opportunity for greatness. People do their best when there is an opportunity to change how things currently stand. Maintaining the status quo facilitates mediocrity. Those who embrace this practice do not wish to rest on their laurels. They motivate others to exceed their limits and look for innovative ways to improve the organization.
James M. KouzesWe have to recognize that however smart we are, we're not smarter than everyone else combined. . . . We can't lose sight of the fact that no matter how important our own contributions are, we couldn't have gotten anywhere without the help and hard work of lots of other people.
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