A person with integrity has no divided loyalties, nothing to hide, and expresses themselves exactly as they are. Maxwell claims that integrity leads to happiness and contentment. Leaders with integrity put into action what they believe, and therefore others follow. Integrity builds trust among others and therefore has influence value. Moreover, integrity in a leader facilitates high standards in an organization. The result is a solid reputation based on fact not superficial image-building.
In Chapter Four, Maxwell points out that the ultimate test of leadership is creating positive change. Without change, an organization is doomed to failure. Maxwell breaks down the process by which change happens via the people responsible. Change begins with innovators -- those 2% of the population who initiate new ideas. A small group of early adopters are the first followers of the new idea and can influence others to adopt change. The majority--60% -- of people...
Finally, about 8% of people will be laggards, perpetually resisting change. The task of the leader is to recognize this pattern in any organization and enact change within it.
Chapter 5 addresses tthe quickest way to gain leadership via problem solving. To solve problems effectively, a leader needs "the right attitude and the right action plan" (Maxwell 1993, p. 76). The key is to change one's perspective and view problems as opportunities. However, leaders also need to recognize problems before they become emergencies. The last five chapters of Developing the Leader within You address extra features of leadership that can enhance understanding of the concept. For example, attitude, the importance of people as assets, vision, self-discipline, and staff development are all integral to the…
