Leadership In Action or Inaction

Maintaining the space between the two words

I have been contemplating the examples of leadership that are so prevalent today. And, instead of being shining examples of Leadership In Action, with a space between “In” and “Action”, I seem to find that they are pitiful examples of Leadership Inaction, without a space between “In” and “action”. Is it a little bit hokey and a play on words? Yes, it is absolutely. But, unfortunately, it captures the state of leadership in our nation and in our culture today.

Inaction is Silence

Many of us who are working for a living and trying to be productive members of society are observing ample instances of inaction by our elected leaders. When it seems obvious that taking a stand is necessary and the appropriate thing to do, instead of for the most part we hear the sound of crickets from our elected political leaders.

But as much as I want to blame these elected political leaders, I can’t. It seems that what “sells” is that which is most pleasing to the ears of the listener. And, as a free market capitalist, I can’t blame them for selling a product that so many appear to want to purchase. The sad truth appears to be that “Inaction sells.”

Action Conquers Fear

But inaction has a tremendous downside. It has the effect of sucking life and courage from those of us who would lead. Consider what the great businessman and philanthropist Dale Carnegie once said:

“Inaction breeds doubt and fear. Action breeds confidence and courage. If you want to conquer fear, do not sit home and think about it. Go out and get busy.”

As we see both on the platform of many churches every Sunday and on the stage of political life on a daily basis, the inaction of those leaders grows from the seeds of doubt and fear manifested mainly by the lack of their own convictions for doing “the right” thing. They are plagued by so much self-doubt that they are practically paralyzed from acting. It is either that, or they are so concerned that someone won’t like them or won’t invite them on the weekend TV shows that they stay to the safety and security of the status quo.

Who do you see out there that would be a great example of a current day man in (space) action? Who do you know that is someone who does not worry about whether he is liked or admired by the culture because his courage and his convictions for doing what is right weigh heavier on him than his desire for popularity.

So, I ask a question of you leaders who are drawn to this collection of thoughts and who are drawn to where the action is.

What are you doing to eliminate the space between “in” and “action”?

Print Friendly, PDF & Email

Leader -|- Follower -|- Guide

I am the husband of a beautiful and wonderful woman. I am the father of two of the greatest kids on the planet. I am a father-in-law to a great young woman. And I am Papa to three very special grandchildren. In my spare time I am an active blogger and writer. And if there is any time left over, I work with small non-profit organizations and churches on the topics of change management, crisis intervention and leadership development.

Please note: I reserve the right to delete comments that are offensive or off-topic.