Leadership Should Inspire, Not Instigate Fear  

This post caught my attention and sent my mind wheeling about the oft misunderstood or ignored link between politics and inspiration.

Barack Obama became the 44th United States President against an emotional backdrop of high promise and extraordinary expectations. On the campaign trail he proved to be an inspirational leader who motivated and inspired the masses.

Now just a few short weeks after the inauguration, the political and emotional backdrop has changed significantly. As the economy continues to falter it seems that our politicians are also stumbling. Messages of hope and change have been replaced with the message of fear and anxiety.

According to a recent CNN poll, 3 out of 4 Americans are scared about state of the country. One could say this should be expected, given the economic times we are in, and that most people aren't doing well. But this is not the case -- three out of four questioned say that things are going well for them personally.

What we see is the product of the mainstream media combining with a Congress and Administration which has turned to a message of fear instead of the wave of hope that brought the current majority into power. An economic downturn has been blown into the "worst economy since the Great Depression," as both the media and the President repeatedly call it, ignoring the meltdown of 1975-1982 - and to no no one's surprise, when people are scared they aren't very confident, either.

By abandoning a message of hope and inspiration our political leaders have created a dark cloud of gloom that hangs heavy over a proud nation built through vision,enthusiasm and perseverance.

In 2004 a book titled "The Inspirational Leader" was written by John Adair. A former soldier in the British Army, Addair also had a long career as a management professor and leadership consultant. His book explains why enthusiasm is often necessary to lead. In essence an enthusiastic person tends to inspire enthusiasm in others. It is a book that each of our political leaders should take the time to read.

Now is the opportunity for political leaders of all stripes to turn from the politics of fear and instead inspire citizens to greater possibilities and better tomorrows. It's what the people are craving and it is what the economy deserpately needs.

Inspire and the people will respond. Instigate fear and you shatter their confidence.