WINNING LEADERS: Redefining Leadership

by David Beavers

What is the first thing that comes to mind when you hear the word, leadership? A strong charismatic personality? A take-charge kind of individual?

For most people, leaders are always someone else.

Many have said to me, “I’m not interested in being a leader in this business...or any business. I don’t want to do what you do, David. I’m sure you’re really busy. I feel guilty sometimes just calling you. And pursuing NMD—that National Marketing Director thing? That's definitely not for me!”

Recently my wife, Sally, brought a book to my attention. It’s called, Peanut Butter and Jelly Management. The authors encourage us to dump all stereotypes of what we think it takes to become a leader: earning an MBA, working 18 hour days; lives full of stress without any rest. And lots of public speaking.

Here’s the authors’ take:

All you need to succeed as a leader is to be a mother


They claim that everything learned by raising children can be applied in motivating and leading people.

  • Make the rules clear
  • Don’t overreact to mistakes
  • Know when to let go
  • Stay calm when something goes wrong.

Their conclusion: “Who knew that staying up all night with a teething baby was actually preparing you to climb the corporate ladder?”

Or become a National Marketing Director?

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