Signs of a Leader

Did you watch the Academy Awards this year?

If you did, and if your leadership radar was tuned on and up, you would have picked up on the subtle actions of a leader. It was an oasis in a desert barren of leadership. It was a sight to behold.

Many newly pronounced Oscar owners went slightly out of their way to pass by this leader to be congratulated as they made their way toward the stage. They were rewarded with hugs, smiles, emotional embraces, and simply, yet warmly, acknowledged for their achievements.

As the show progressed this leader appeared more obvious because of the number of winners who made sure of the connection.

It was not until the conclusion of the program that the leader and the leadership became apparent. Then, when Kathryn Bigelow was announced as the Oscar winner for best director and again when “The Hurt Locker” was announced as the best picture of the year Kathryn Bigelow’s pure of heart leadership took center stage.

We heard leadership in her comments, felt it in her passion, and most importantly, palpably saw it in the sense of teamness, family, and togetherness that was on that stage among the cast and crew. Something that only an extraordinary leader brings out in a group.

Something we need to see, experience and hear more of and in many, many different situations and venues.