Why do some organizations produce better results then others?  Some athletes, scholars, sales men and women, excel.  Others do not not.

What drives the difference between exceptional, average and mediocracy?  This question probably has no simple answer with an array of factors contributing.

The multitude of attitudes, behaviours and experiences contributing to outcomes, both personal and organizational, make it difficult if not immpossible to definitively identify a single factor or combination  that would consistently lead to success.

Leadership

Intuitively, the practice of leading a group of people, an organization or even personal leadership is critical to results.  Most often lack of leadership can be associated with lack of results.

While not necessarily a singularly definitive aspect of attaining success, most would agree the quality of leadership makes a difference.

In the context of this post, I consider leadership to be those behaviours that influence and impact outcomes, but do not necessarily need to be practiced from the front (e.g., leading from behind) or requiring organizational (e.g., CEO) or personal power (e.g., imposing physical or mental prowess).

Making the Difference

Leaders are a key factor in the difference between mediocre and exceptional.  Their contributions might be clearly recognized (and rewarded) or it might be seamless and unseen.

Without the influence, facilitation and perseverance of a strong leader, good results might be attained but the likelihood is greatly increased the better the leadership.

The ability to lead lies within each of us and whether associated with personal or organizational success, nuturing the leader within really increases the chance of success.