When Leadership Spells Danger

Author: Heifetz, R.A., Linsky, M.
Publisher: Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development (ASCD)
Publication Date: 2004, April
Journal: Educational Leadership
Journal Volume: 61(7)
Pages: 33-37
Available for purchase online at: http://www.ascd.org/publications/educational_leadership/apr04/vol61/num07/abstract.aspx#When_Leadership_Spells_Danger

Abstract (written by WestEd)

Leadership is not the same as authority. In fact, the authors acknowledge that the more authority one has, the greater the risk that person takes when exercising leadership. The authors identify two types of challenges: technical problems that can be solved through the knowledge of experts and through logic and intellect, and adaptive challenges, which require people to change their beliefs, actions, values, ways of working, etc. Most problems are a mix of both. The hard work of leadership occurs when people need to make adaptive changes. Observing that successful leaders, especially those in politics, emphasize personal relationships over logic, the authors suggest educational leaders apply the following tactics for survival and success:

1. Don't do it alone.
   
2. Keep the opposition close.
   
3. Acknowledge people's losses.
   
4. Accept casualties.
   
5. Accept responsibility for your part.

Finally, the authors note that "the kind of leadership that can fashion new and better responses to...local realities needs to come from many places within classrooms, districts, and communities. In this complex environment, it is more important than ever that educators at all levels exercise adaptive leadership."

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