"The fundamental belief is that all people have the capacity to grow and to develop and that it is by uncovering and removing the impediments to this development that leaders make the greatest contribution to the organization and to the people that they lead."
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Breakthrough Leadership by Terry Lee Trafford Publishing
book review by RJM Terrado
Breakthrough Leadership explores the evolution in leadership trends, from command and control management to transformational leadership. Lee tries to bridge the gap between the use of charisma and behavior in leadership, which becomes the central theme of the book. He utilizes data from over 800 managers to identify six leadership behaviors that can make a significant impact to the lives of those who are being led. He then posits that every leader can have an opportunity to become breakthrough leaders by training and discipline. Lee successfully redefines success by focusing on growth and value that are beneficial to the individual and the organization as well: ultimate, long-term, and sustainable.
For readers who find it a challenge to put up with academic-sounding leadership concepts, Lee provides rich descriptions, historical approach, and vivid and easy to understand illustrations and applicable quotes for a given topic. Breakthrough Leadership is a bedrock book for organizational leaders, managers, followers, and anyone working with people and for an organization. The book is a valuable personal and organizational resource for all who want to make a difference through their behavior.
What makes this book a must-have is its assertion that leaders are not born but rather they are made. According to Lee, leaders must learn how to be interested with others, to listen, act and challenge, and give support and recognition. These leadership behaviors impact individuals from within and make a positive manifestation on the outside. The book addresses leadership by encouraging leaders and aspiring leaders alike to uncover the potentials of their subordinates and help them overcome the impediments to making breakthroughs.