Learn Leadership? Why Should I?
It was Nov 2013 – I was conducting one of my first Leadership workshops in Dubai – at the Holiday Inn Express in Dubai Media city. Of the 10 delegates, only one was a woman – an Emarati lady – Mouza who worked for ADNOC. As I commenced the workshop, during the customary introductions, I asked Mouza, “What brings you, a young Emarati lady working in ADNOC Abudhabi, to a self-paid Leadership workshop over a weekend?” Mouza replied, “My father has taught me to never give the pen that writes my future in someone else’s hand.”. Astute words of wisdom.
That incident took me to my younger days. When I worked in Baker Hughes, I was looking to grow in my career. In the absence of any internally approved Leadership courses, I applied for leave and attended a self-paid workshop on Strategic Leadership. When I had completed the course and returned to work, my manager Jairo asked me, “So where did you go on your leave?”. I replied, “I was attending a Strategic Leadership workshop.”. He was surprised and said, “I really love how you take time to invest in yourself and take control of your career. Never let someone else decide your future!”
Years later, when studying Leadership through the seminal evidence-based research by Jim Kouzes and Barry Posner, I came upon an article that outlines the Five Practices of Exemplary Leadership, emphasizing the importance of continuous learning, collaboration, and inspiring others in effective leadership.
The Importance of Leadership Learning
Leaders must continuously learn and improve to enhance their leadership skills.
- Belief in the ability to learn and improve is essential.
- Constant improvement is a key trait of effective leadership.
Once they have learnt and mastered leadership, exemplary leaders grow other leaders by the following Five Practices.
Modeling Leadership Behavior
Leaders set standards and exemplify the behavior they expect from others.
- Titles may be granted, but respect is earned through behavior.
- Consistency between words and actions is crucial.
- Affirming shared values strengthens group cohesion.
Inspiring a Shared Vision
Leaders must create and communicate a compelling vision for the future. They inspire others to aspire for leadership and to grow themselves.
- Commitment must be inspired rather than commanded.
- A vision must be shared and understood by all to drive change.
Challenging the Status Quo
Leaders should seek innovative improvements and view setbacks as learning opportunities.
- Proactive leaders venture out and do not remain passive.
- A supportive climate for new ideas is essential for growth.
Empowering Team Collaboration
Leaders should foster teamwork and collaboration by involving others in decision-making.
- Granting power to team members enhances their capabilities and ownership.
- Seeking input from others builds a stronger, more capable team.
Recognizing Contributions and Celebrating Success
Leaders must acknowledge individual contributions to maintain motivation and morale.
- Creating a culture of celebration reinforces shared values and victories.
- Rituals and celebrations can help teams navigate challenging times.
Want to take control of your future and enhance your Leadership? Check out the Leadership Learning offers during Motivaluate Leadership
Festival on our web page www.motivaluate.com.
Upcoming :
Why Leadership? Why Now? Webinar – 5th December 2025 4pm
The Leadership Challenge Workshop – 13-14 December 2025 – Face to Face – Dubai
Author : Shridhar Sampath – Certified Master – The Leadership Challenge / CEO – Founder -
Motivaluate Consulting & Training – www.motivaluate.com/about-us