"Idolizing leadership is not healthy."
"Success is not built on success. It's built on failure. It's built on frustration. Sometimes it's built on catastrophe." Sumner Redstone.
From LinkedIn Article September 6, 2024
It's important to remember that leaders are not infallible. While figures like Steve Jobs, Lee Iacocca, and Bill Gates are celebrated for their success, they must recognize that their journey includes successes and failures. Many innovative companies tend to overlook the downsides of leadership. I once discussed with a colleague how an individual's ego can sometimes overshadow the common good. I mentioned, "That ego could crush an elephant." Self-promotion is often valued and seen as essential for leaders, and those we admire may appear flawless. For example, Elon Musk's impulsive actions in the name of "free speech" led to the acquisition of Twitter, now known as "X," which brought the company to bankruptcy. While Musk is brilliant, this decision did not yield positive results. Many former and current employees probably dislike Musk but feel bound by their positions or hope for positive change. Leaders in such positions often prioritize their legacy, ego, and wealth over others' perspectives. A well-rounded view of leadership is essential without focusing solely on financial success. Remember, leaders are human.