The leader must beware of focusing on “leadership” rather than mission. I don’t know that one can always be perceived as a good leader and also be an effective leader. There is a difference between the reality of good leadership and the perception of good leadership. There is so much new literature on leadership itself that some leaders may find a subtle shift in their focus that is detrimental to their mission. One must ask, “Do I want to be perceived as a good leader, or do I want to get the mission accomplished?” Good leaders should be measured by the mission they choose and by the efficacy of their achievement. One may argue that the way a person leads is important, but this counterpoint is subsumed in the first two measures. Leadership is a means, not an end.
