Leadership: The Inner Side of Greatness

About the Author

Peter Koestenbaum, the founder and chairman of Philosophy-in-Business and the Koestenbaum Institute, has made a significant impact in the realms of leadership, management, marketing, and strategy implementation across nearly 40 countries. Known for his philosophical approach to business, Koestenbaum has authored several influential works, including Freedom and Accountability at Work and The Philosophic Consultant. His seminal book, Leadership: The Inner Side of Greatness: A Philosophy for Leaders, expands on his unique leadership theories, providing managers and leaders with a profound understanding of the philosophical and practical aspects of leadership.

Main Idea

In Leadership: The Inner Side of Greatness, Peter Koestenbaum challenges traditional managerial mindsets, urging leaders to embrace a philosophy that integrates vision, reality, ethics, and courage. He posits that true greatness in leadership comes from a deep personal commitment to excellence and authenticity. Koestenbaum's approach is holistic, emphasizing that leaders must cultivate their inner strengths and align their actions with their values to inspire and empower others effectively.

Table of Contents

1. The Model: What is Inner Greatness?
2. The Leadership Diamond: Four Strategies for Greatness
3. Vision: Thinking Big and New
4. Reality: Having No Illusions
5. Ethics: Providing Service
6. Courage: Acting with Sustained Initiative
7. The Context: The Search for Greatness
8. Developing the Mind
9. Implementing the Leadership Diamond
10. Leadership Strategies in Action

The Model: What is Inner Greatness?

Koestenbaum introduces the concept of "Inner Greatness," which lies at the heart of his Leadership Diamond model. This model asserts that true leadership effectiveness is achieved through the simultaneous activation of four fundamental styles of thinking: vision, reality, ethics, and courage. According to Koestenbaum, greatness is not just about achieving results but also about embodying authenticity and depth of character. He emphasizes that leaders must commit to a new way of thinking and acting, transforming their perceptions and concepts to unlock their full potential.

"Greatness lies at the center of the Leadership Diamond model; the space it inhabits results from the simultaneous activation of four fundamentally different styles of thinking or ways of greatness: vision, reality, ethics, and courage." - Peter Koestenbaum

The Ten Leadership Propositions

Koestenbaum outlines ten propositions that serve as practical guidelines for leaders striving for greatness. These propositions emphasize the importance of effectiveness, transformation, empowerment, and continuous learning. They challenge leaders to wake up to their potential, embrace ambiguity and uncertainty, and lead in all aspects of life.

"Leadership is a mindset and a pattern of behaviors. It is to have made a habit of a new way of thinking and a new way of acting." - Peter Koestenbaum

• Be effective and emphasize results.
• Understand that leadership is a mindset and a pattern of behaviors.
• Be prepared to wake up and change your perceptions and concepts radically.
• Lead by teaching leadership and empowering others.
• Have faith that leadership can be learned and taught.
• Embrace ambiguity, polarity, and uncertainty.
• Lead in all six arenas of life: work, family, self, social responsibility, ecological responsibility, and financial strength.
• Integrate leadership teaching into your products and services.
• Use both logical reasoning and intuition.
• Expect leadership to elevate your health and well-being.

The Leadership Diamond: Four Strategies for Greatness

Koestenbaum's Leadership Diamond model is built on four core dimensions: vision, reality, ethics, and courage. Each dimension is supported by four tactics that guide leaders in developing their leadership intelligence. These tactics range from practical and measurable to deeply philosophical, ensuring a comprehensive approach to leadership development.