In his book titled Leadership (2016), Peter G. Northouse defines leadership as “a process whereby an individual influences a group of individuals to achieve a common goal” (p. 6). Even though this definition certainly captures the essence of what most formalized concepts and modern theories weave throughout their reasoning, there still remains limitless expressions of what leadership is, and how it continues to evolve over time. Nevertheless, despite the broad dialogue of what leadership is, or its value in approaches, structure and components, I appreciate the fact that through definition, Northouse defends the component of influence in leadership as a process, rather than a trait.
As a component of leadership, influence is more than just a static feature between one another or between those in a group; but at its best, an exchange in humility through reciprocity and servanthood. Therein lies the value in the leadership component of process as a “transactional event” (Northouse, 2016, p. 6) – it is neither a linear one-way event demonstrated often by the concept of power, but an opportunity to empower others through a process. Influence suffocates in a leadership vacuum, but flourishes and breathes life within the context of groups who are learning and sharing in the process. This environment supercharges growth, most specifically with groups of followers that share a belief or devotion towards common goals. In the context of goal attainment in group context, Jesus would undoubtedly be considered the original architect of forming, storming, norming and performing. Given His ultimate power through process, what one measure of influence did He use to hold those closest to Him together, and on point to goal?
Matt
Northouse, P. G. (2016). Leadership: theory and practice (Seventh ed.). Los Angeles: Sage Publications.