On Tuesday I posted about the need for good leaders to perceive when their own and others behaviour is verging on stubborn so they can de-escalate the scenario and move to circumstances that are a benefit to all.

It was noted in later comments (keep those cards and letters coming they are appreciated) that everyone should practice eliminating stubbornness, this is not just a task for leaders.

In Principal, In Reality

I can imagine a place or state of things in which everything is perfect, in fact  not only imagine it but act in ways that will contribute to the development of a Utopia for all.

Unfortunately though, my own experience  and failures in this regard lead me to a more pragmatic perspective.  Seeking Utopia is a worthwhile endeavour but a very difficult if not improbable achievement, at least in the near term.

Thus, well it is true everyone should avoid stubborn behaviour, both for their own and others benefit a leader by dint of the responsibilities they accepted has an obligation to do this.

A realistic approach

Leaders are best positioned to guide us to utopian circumstances and while this should preclude universal participation the reality (at least in current times) is that motivation and direction from a central source (i.e. leader) is needed.

The damage caused by a powerful in transient belief, from terrorist acts to all out war, often has a leader at its heart motivating followers to act in unsavoury ways sometimes simply by first recognizing and then encouraging their innate stubbornness.

This is not to say effective leadership is a way to solve all of humankind’s problems, but it could be a start.   In the final denouement though it does take everyone’s participation’s