Truly great leaders often emerge from grassroots movements in which likeminded individuals share a collective cause. For example, Nelson Mandela's influence and responsibility are broader than few people will ever experience. In celebration of his 90th birthday, he offered Time magazine-through author Richard Stengel-eight lessons with specific insights into the secrets of leadership. His eight rules describe the makings of a great political leader; but if you look beyond politics, you might discover that one or more of these rules may be applicable as you find yourself in management positions or are propelled to leadership in an APN role.
Defining Management
Nurses have always held management positions in a variety of settings that range from entry-level management to expert administrative executives. We have the option to earn a master's degree targeted to nursing leadership and management, and to acquire the skills and competencies needed for the expanding responsibilities of APNs in today's healthcare market. One does not have to learn by being "thrown into the fire" anymore.
The need for increased access to care for the underserved and uninsured, along with the need for improved quality outcomes, has been one of the driving forces behind the growing number of doctor of nursing practice degree programs. However, does graduate education prepare more capable managers, leaders, or both?
What is a Leader?
A quote attributed to Peter Drucker, a famed management expert, offered a distinguishing characteristic between management and leadership: "Management is doing things right; leadership is doing the right thing." A reader on the Internet, in response to this quote, stated, "Management can be taught (to anyone)-it is an administrative function; leadership is about who you are."1
You do not have to agree with either statement to appreciate the essence of understanding the terms. In the Time article, however, Mandela's ability as a leader, and at the same time a manager, is evident-his passion is palpable and infectious.
The eight rules reveal a mere glimmer of the man. And although they appear to be simplistic, they actually reflect the complexity of Mandela's thoughts. The rules are: 1) Courage is not the absence of fear-it is inspiring others to move beyond it; 2) Lead from the front-but do not leave your base behind; 3) Lead from the back-and let others believe they are in front; 4) Know your enemy-and learn about his favorite sport; 5) Keep your friends close-and your rivals even closer; 6) Appearances matter-and remember to smile; 7) Nothing is black or white; and 8) Quitting is leading too.2 I cannot be so presumptive as to attempt an explanation of any of these rules; read the article for yourself and construct your own interpretations.
A Toast to Nursing's Finest
Nursing has celebrated many prominent leaders who have stood out, and still stand out, from the crowd. These leaders have opened pathways for others to follow. Likewise, we have many managers who quietly carry on business practices and processes with expertise, effectiveness, and efficiency everyday while leading on a smaller yet still influential scale. Consequently, I salute all the APNs in the front and in the back-thank you for your passion.
Jamesetta Newland, RN, APRN, BC, PhD, FAANP, FNAP
Editor-in-Chief, [email protected]
References