Warren Bennis

On Becoming a Leader

1. IDEA 1

   Leaders are made, not born

   Bennis argues that leadership is not an inborn trait but something people develop. Through experience and reflection, anyone can become the kind of person who leads. He interviewed many leaders to reach this view.

2. IDEA 2

   Know yourself first

   Bennis argues that self-knowledge is the foundation of leadership. Leaders must understand their strengths, weaknesses and values to act with integrity and confidence. Leaders who know themselves can express themselves fully.

3. IDEA 3

   Know the world

   Bennis describes the importance of learning broadly, through travel, reading and diverse experiences. Understanding the wider world helps leaders see possibilities others miss. Curiosity, he says, is a leader's greatest friend.

All 8 ideas from On Becoming a Leader →