Doc V Moyo

An extract from the book “MANUAL FOR 21^ST CENTURYLEADERSHIP” by DR. V Moyo.

The attempt of this part of the paper is to come up with a functional definition and “effective leadership.” This is motivated by the fact that my whole idea in coming up with this book is to assist leaders become effective leaders. In pursuit to this I will therefore consult three authorities that have defined leadership in various contexts that is church, ministry and business leadership.

Church –Context Definition of Leadership

“Leadership is the act of influencing /servicing others out of Christ‘s interest in their lives so they accomplish God’s purpose for and through them” Campbellsville university. The definition brings to context two aspects that is “…influencing…” or “serving others” to accomplish a “vision” which is God’s purpose on this case.

Military –Context “Leadership” Definition

inspiring and effectively leading subordinates through a military mission with life or death implications, which requires a special set of communication skills and personal characteristics, and this leadership extends beyond the battle.

Norwich University

In the military context leadership is defined in a very unique manner. The issue of life and death mission is brought to context hence, the typical leader in this discipline is set to be inspiring and effective. The military leadership is further required to poses some special skills communications and to have some certain personal characteristics. One may conclude that military environment cannot tolerate ordinary leaders but special leaders. What makes everything different in this context is the issue of life and death. It could be very relevant that if the issue of a special effective leadership is not considered lives can be lost, therefore only “EFFECTIVE LEADERSHIP” can be entertained.

Business Context “Leadership” Definition

Leadership is the process of influencing others to understand and agree about what needs to be done and how to do it and the process of facilitating individuals and collective efforts to accomplish shared objectives.

Gary Yuki (2006)

The business definition provided by Gary brings into context the issue of

1. influencing
2. Understand
3. Agree

The above dimensions also reveals that this leader should not be a general leader but one with these special attributes who will figure out as to how he will influence the understanding. Once the subordinates have been made to understand they need to be influenced to agree to the perceived line.

Functional Definition of Leadership

It can be defined as the art of inspiring and empowering others to achieve a common goal. Brain Tracey says

become a leader that people would follow voluntarily even if you had no tittle or
position.

On another note, Dolly Parton says

“if your actions create legacy that inspires others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more, then, you are an excellent leader”.

The definition that has been provided as the functional definition above defines an effective leader who inspire and empower people towards a certain goal. All definitions above attempt to define someone more than a leader. Someone who brings guarantee or continuity of survival of either people’s lives or organization.
Therefore the entire work here will be attempting to equip leaders to be “effective leaders” who will ensure that organizations survive beyond their challenges through the leaders inspirations and empowering.

Stay tuned as I delve deeper into the fascinating world of leadership! Each week, I’ll explore key topics such as the essence of leadership, how it works, the characteristics of great leaders, the laws of the leadership lid, approaches to leadership acquisition, essential leadership qualities, and so much more. Let’s embark on this journey of growth and discovery together!