Leadership is the behavior each of us exerts when we take responsibility for our actions and their consequences.

Leadership is an active, living process. It is rooted in character, forged by experience, and communicated by example.

Leadership embraces activism; it is the outcome of a purposeful pursuit of goals.

Purpose needs to be nurtured. It gains resolve when faced with adversity. The ability to overcome obstacles and challenges is daunting but when accomplished gives us a great feeling of achievement. At the same time we need to nurture purpose by exposing ourselves to new opportunities. We need to learn continuously and we need to teach what we learn to others. Such things like that, and many more, help shape and develop the sense of a leader's purpose so that he or she can provide greater service to the organization.

All leaders must be good communicators. But let's be clear, communications is not the same as oratory. Let me give you an example. General George C. Marshall was an exemplary public servant and military officer. He helped mobilize our nation for the Second World War and helped lay the foundation for peace as Secretary of State. He communicated through words, but more loudly through his actions.

Solution = Conflict + Collaboration

Three things a leader or manager should be thinking: What's happening? What's not happening? and What can I do to influence the outcome?