Leadership in the 21st century refers firstly to self-leadership. Self-leadership is a continual process of self-evaluation and self-development. It requires analysis and understanding of what a particular situation requires and what can be done to be better prepared and equipped to face that situation. The focus is on readiness for what is to come and then act with purpose.
The 21st century leader is one who partners with teams – empowering them and rendering support through coaching and mentoring. The traditional authoritative leader role is in vast contrast to the collaborative approach where business (leaders) team up with the public sector and non-profit organisations. It is about affluence and influence. The emphasis is on building trust amid a paradoxical world of wealth and poverty, knowledge and ignorance, technology, and basic means.
The world needs leaders who are agile, and ethical, those who build relationships based on trust and respect. Our complex and ambiguous world requires leaders who are open to learning and application. Such leaders become the change they wish to see in others.
