What’s Leadership?

A simple thought experiment that just might change everything

Albert Einstein was famous for his thought experiments. Here are a couple of thought experiments that might just change everything you think you know about leadership.

THOUGHT EXPERIMENT #1:

For the next two weeks, start noticing how the words LEADER or LEADERSHIP get used around you, in your workplace, in the media or in the movies.

These words are everywhere. Often it’s in reference to a person’s formal title or position. Or when bemoaning the lack of direction, order, protection, or expertise from people in positions of authority.

Notice your reaction to these words…be it positive and energizing, cynical, neutral or even confused. When these words are misunderstood and misused, we risk undermining the very people and issues we care about. When understood, we have a better chance of leveraging power, and strengthening our own sense of agency.

Then, in a couple of weeks, try this.

THOUGHT EXPERIMENT #2:

The next time these words are at the tip of your tongue, pause before saying anything. Give attention to what exactly you’re trying to convey. Say something different instead of “leader/ship”.

For example, say “Board of Directors”, “supervisor”, “executive team”, or “management team”…if you’re referring to a position of authority. Or, if you’re referring to an act of leadership (or lack thereof), specify a behavior that the “leader” is doing (or not doing).

This second thought exercise may result in you stopping the use of the words leader and leadership altogether. That’s not the goal, but it just might be a desirable side effect.

Easy right? Let me know what you discover.

Originally published at https://ericmartin.substack.com on October 11, 2022.