EDD 7000: Experiential Leadership: Leadership Issues

The first class of the Doctoral Program enabled me to take a look at what I already knew about leadership, innovation, change, ethics, and the importance of a vision. After completing the personal leadership agenda, I learned that I am too technical and I tend to focus on logistics and tactics. I need more strategies for planning to “see the big picture”. I do like the challenge of persuading others and I am not fearful of uncertainty. On the other hand, I tend to base information on data and facts (managing). It is imperative that I move toward including feelings, emotions, and ideas (leadership). Likewise, I need to be more of a leader with regards to decision- making. It seems that I am very analytical and rational. Something that I gained from this class is knowledge of the Socratic Method. Prior to this class I was unaware of such a way of thinking. I learned the following:  There is no single correct answer.  Beliefs must be supported with data.  There are no absolutes.  Avoid either / or.  Think deeply.  Be respectful and be respected.  It healthy to disagree.  Listen and make sure you are listened to.  I am responsible for this course even if I don’t admit it.  Leaders relish mistakes.  The process is more relevant than the product.  According to Soder (p.66), A man’s method of argument is a truer index of is beliefs than his explicit profession of principles.

I have a lot to turn and a long way to go as I begin this journey. It is scary to think that I don’t even know just how much I don’t know.

Standards: 1, 2