Every one of the geezers who continues to play a leadership role has one quality of overriding importance: neotony. The dictionary definition is that neotony, a zoological term, involves "the retention of youthful qualities throughout old age." It is more than merely retaining a youthful appearance, although that is often part of it. Neotony is the retention of all those wonderful qualities that we associate with youth: curiosity, playfulness, eagerness, fearlessness, warmth, energy.
Warren G. BennisJust as no great painting has ever been created by a committee, no great vision has ever emerged from the herd.
Warren G. BennisWhile great leaders may be as rare as great runners, great actors, or great painters, everyone has leadership potential, just as everyone has some ability at running, acting, and painting.
Warren G. BennisGreat groups deliver great results. And for everyone involved in a great group, great work is its own reward.
Warren G. BennisLeaders do not avoid, repress, or deny conflict, but rather see it as an opportunity
Warren G. BennisThe failure to find the right niche for people - or to let them find their own perfect niches - is a major reason that so many workplaces are mediocre, even toxic, in spite of the presence of talent. Leaders of great groups give them whatever they need and free them from everything else.
Warren G. Bennis