Boss vs. Leader

In business, I teach students that there is a distinct difference between being a boos and a leader. In leadership, the boss is one who feels s/he can order everyone around and not be held accountable. The leader knows that s/he must be the living example of the principles that govern the organization or other entity.

In the area of parenting, I call black parents on the carpet about their nasty habit of being a "boss" as opposed to a leader in the home. How can you tell children not to drink or smoke when Junior sees Daddy puffing on an unfiltered Camel and Mama drinking Black Label beer or Riunite wine? You have already discredited yourself in the eyes of your own children, yet you feel that because you're "grown", it gives you the right to be a hypocrite. You cannot demand respect and courtesy when your behavior doesn't warrant it.

I have a saying about bosses and leaders. The boss does what is easy, while the leader does what is right. The boss reveals a cowardly nature during times of turbulence, while the leader shows great courage in doing what is right. Leaders are ultimately viewed as heroes because they did not waver from their core principles and values. The boss is a coward because s/he chose the path of expediency and ease. That is why the term "political leader" is an oxymoron to me because the only political figure I've known that has displayed great courage in the face of adversity is Adam Clayton Powell, Jr. I don't see too many preachers or political figures that displayed that level of boldness today.

I'll explain the genesis of this piece at a later date. But for now, I want you to become a leader, not a boss. Bosses get assassinated. Leaders have people willing to kill on their behalf out of loyalty.