An Inspirational Man Who Went From The Classic American Successor

Colin Powell’s “It Worked For Me in Life and Leadership” (2012) is a riveting book that discusses in great detail the simple but often-fundamental leadership principles that have been consigned to oblivion by most people and leaders. The evocative book provides a basis on which one can evaluate their strengths and weaknesses in leadership in all dimensions, particularly at the work place and suggests other areas of improvement that the reader can asses to ensure proper development. Through careful, frequent and honest evaluations from both self and others, it is possible for a person to become the best version of himself or herself; in turn, this contributes to a well-rounded leader.

Most people recognize Colin Powell as one of the most admired and popular leaders of our time. Often times in leadership you will not always be popular or admired, so what makes this leader different? It was those core values ingrained in him at early age by his parents that would shape him as a future leader (Koltz & Powell, 2012). As with any great leader he’s had his fair share of trials and tribulations, but like an infantry officer he continued to press forward. Colin Powell has been a visionary and ethical leader since the early days of Persian Gulf to Washington’s corridors (Roth, 1993). Throughout my research he has become a personal inspiration for me due to his ability to inspire and motivate those around him. Let’s take a brief look into his background to provide a better understanding of his leadership style.

According to dictionary.com leadership is defined as, the position or function of a leader, a person who guides or directs a group: Its synonyms include guidance, influence, control, direction and supervision. These are all qualifications that are needed to be an effective leader. All characteristics are not necessarily needed at the same time and do no need to be used for each subordinate. This paper will identify my personal leadership philosophy along with theories to support my leadership style.

Some People if they hear his name Colin Powell they say who is that but he is well known for being secretary of state and serving in the army and saving his friends for a burning helicopter. He joined the ROTC after college

Leadership. It is a trait that is valued in almost any form of society. Whether it be leadership in the workplace or leadership on the battlefield, leadership is a prized capability for people. But, according to Colin Powell, this valued leadership trait can be lost at the hands of the followers of that leader. If these followers no longer trust their leader with their problems, then that person is no longer their leader. And, this statement does have some validity. While the raw talents of a leader are valuable to a group, ultimately, the success of the leader is contingent on whether or not the leader acknowledges and includes his followers. Therefore, Powell’s point is agreeable to a large extent, as it is imperative that the followers not only

Born a son of Jamaican immigrants, educated in the New York public school system and beginning his college education at City College of New York, studying geology, no one would imagine the life this man would lead. This individual progressed to become the 65th United States Secretary of State as well as to serve on the Joint Chiefs of Staff. Having tenacity, focus, vision and a desire to win therefore leading to many honored appointments. When you examine his career you see a man that leads his life by holding himself accountable, having that winning spirit, understanding the importance of the people around him throughout my youth each of these qualities are valued in my family. Qualities and value that I hope to draw upon as I progress into my adult life. If I were to meet General Powell , I believe I would be as

Everyone has a chance to be someone great. Many people tell stories about World War II, they tell about the brave heroes and great leaders of the war. One American hero in particular was General Dwight D. Eisenhower, who led the infamous D-Day attack that turned the tide of the war. He too fought bravely for our country from being a soldier to a major general. Dwight even served as one of America’s presidents later on after the war, a time that was affected by the Cold War, Civil Rights Movement, and the rise of communism.Through two of the most famous wars in history, and during his presidency Dwight Eisenhower began establishing his legacy of great leadership, a legacy that will live on and be remembered by those who know his story.

As a Non Commissioned Officer in the Pennsylvania Army Nation Guard, I realize the importance and value of good leadership. A leader has to be able to understand and support their men, have initiative, be quick on their feet, and accept responsibility for their actions. The personal traits that I look for in a leader are courage, commitment, candor, competence, and integrity. Out of these the most important one to me, is integrity. A man’s word is his bond and the most important leadership trait there is. Looking back, the man I see as a great leader that possesses these traits is Ret. General Colin Powell. Colin Powell is one of the greatest military leaders in this country’s history. He served this country

General Powell highlights 18 lessons learned in leadership that are applied to successful companies, and how they are applied to leadership in his presentation to the Outreach Program, and the Sears Corporate Headquarters. These approaches can be applied not only in business but life in general. I will highlight three of the lessons that have impacted my career in the military

General Powell displays transformation leadership through individualized consideration. “IC involves dealing with others as individuals and considering their needs, abilities, and aspirations as you work together to further their development.” General Powell’s Army background influences the idea of taking raw iron and fashioning it into a sword; as noted in his quote “leaders are made, not born” implies leadership is a shaping process. Transformational leaders who display individual consideration tend to coach and mentor, excel in two-way communications, listens effectively, and personalize interactions with subordinates. Part of General Powell’s principle of empowerment is an investment in the leadership potential of team members. This investment is necessary in sustaining productive organizations.

Leadership is as a simple idea and concept of influencing others to accomplish the mission by providing purpose, direction, and motivation. Many say that leadership takes charisma or that some are natural born leaders; others may even add that leadership stems from a relationship of bestowing and taking from other leaders and followers. For George S. Patton, General and leader of troops he was a fearless transformational leadership that inspirited his Third army to achieve the impossible. Not every form of leadership can can command the fear and instant obedience of a U.S. Army general.

Colin Luther Powell was born on April 5th 1937, In New York City. Powell’s was raised by his parents Luther Theophilus Powell and Maud Arial in the South Bronx. He attended Morris High School where he graduated in 1954. In 1958, he earned his Bachelor’s degree in geology from the City College in New York. While attending college Powell joined the Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) in the military which he really liked. Upon graduation from college Powell was commissioned into the US Army as a second lieutenant. This is where it he began his fruitful and long career being a part of the US Army as well as a civil servant in the US government. In April 1989, Powell while serving in the US Army was advanced up to the level of four star general. Powell retired from the US Army in September 1993 after a successful career. Powell then served as the secretary of state as well as the national security adviser. Being a part of the US Military is what interested me in the decision to read his book.

Colin Powell is a well known man. He accomplished many things in his lifetime and is known for his great military work. Colin’s parents stressed for him to do his best at all times and to work hard.

The General Colin Powell came as part of our campus Lecture Series and shares his view of leadership.

Over the years, a great deal of time, and research has been dedicate to the study of leadership. Even with extensive data on the topic, many still disagree on what leadership really means. Hence, leadership is a word that has many different meanings and different researched theories associated with it. On a basic level, leadership involves having and establishing a clear vision, sharing that vision with followers, respecting followers, and leading an organization with excellence while ensuring that everyone is part of the team. Leadership is also a method by which a leader uses his or her influence towards getting a group of followers to take ownership or buy into a vision.