eBook: Thought Leadership & Project Management

The Significance of Thought Leadership

Throughout time, people have been taught from childhood not to stand out, not to be different, not to think or voice difference. Individuals are taught in school and later in their jobs to shy away from conflict that comes about as a result of difference. This unfortunately is a system almost designed to make individuals shrink, and it muffles future leaders. By the time individuals reach adulthood, the concept of individuality has almost been bred out of most people, making it difficult to do anything but blend in and almost setting them up for failure as true leaders. How then do people get the opportunities to be their best and grow as leaders?

Great Leaders Should Make Waves

Great leaders thrive in a state of constant change; they always challenge themselves to see the big picture, as well as the details, more clearly. They push their own boundaries, reach beyond their own borders, overcome their fears, grow their minds, learn from others, and teach others in return. These individuals look for better ways to do things; they’re typically fair and treat others with respect and value great ideas regardless of whom the ideas come from. They stand up for what is right. One of my favorite quotes is from Peter F. Drucker, who said, “Management is doing things right; leadership is doing the right things.”

Yes, things do need to be done right, especially within the confines of project management, but this doesn’t negate the need for business leadership to do the right things. This is truly what differentiates management from leaders.