Why we need to rethink what makes a good leader

Why We Need to Rethink What Makes a Good Leader

Hey everyone,

I want to share something that’s been on my mind from my time in the Canadian military. It’s about how we pick our leaders and why we sometimes get it wrong. Let’s shift our focus from historical figures to modern political leaders.

We often have two types: the charismatic ones who dominate the headlines with bold statements and dramatic actions, and the quieter ones who work behind the scenes to get things done.

Surprisingly, we often end up idolizing the ones who make the most noise.Take, for example, two different styles of leadership in politics today. On one hand, there are leaders who are always in the spotlight, making bold moves that attract media attention. Their stories are full of drama and big promises—perfect for grabbing headlines and social media shares. But sometimes, these leaders make decisions without fully considering the consequences, leading to avoidable problems and setbacks.On the other hand, you have leaders who focus on careful planning and thoughtful decision-making. They might not have the most exciting stories or viral soundbites, but they ensure that things run smoothly. These leaders don’t always get the credit they deserve because their work isn’t flashy, but they often achieve better results by preventing problems before they arise.This is what I like to call the "action fallacy."

We often think that those who make the most noise or have the craziest stories are the best leaders. But in reality, the best leaders are often the ones you don't notice because they are quietly effective, much like the leadership style of General Arthur Currie during World War I.

In my military days, I learned that the real heroes aren’t always the ones in the spotlight. They’re the ones who know the terrain (or situation) and work quietly to guide everyone to success without making a big fuss. They’re like the swimmer who knows exactly when and where to enter the river, making it across without all the splashing and drama.

So next time you think about what makes a good leader, remember: It’s not just about the exciting stories.

It’s about the ones who keep everything running smoothly, even if it looks boring from the outside. Those are the leaders who truly make a difference.

Thanks for taking a moment to rethink leadership with me!