"Leadership by design" vs "Leadership by desire"

 

"Leadership by design" and "Leadership by desire" are two different approaches to leadership that emphasize different aspects and motivations. Here's a breakdown of their differences:

Definition:

Leadership by design: This approach refers to intentional and strategic leadership, where leaders proactively plan, design, and execute their leadership style and actions. It involves careful consideration of goals, values, and organizational objectives, and leaders work towards achieving them through a well-thought-out plan.

Leadership by desire: This approach focuses on leadership that arises from personal passion, interest, or intrinsic motivation. Leaders who follow this approach are driven by their desires, dreams, or ambitions. They are motivated by personal fulfillment, the pursuit of their passions, or the desire to make a difference in a specific area.

Intentionality:

Leadership by design: This approach emphasizes planning and deliberate decision-making. Leaders who adopt this approach consciously design their leadership strategies, structure their teams, set goals, define processes, and create systems to achieve desired outcomes.

Leadership by desire: This approach is more spontaneous and driven by personal inclinations. Leaders who follow this approach are guided by their internal desires, and their leadership style and actions may not be as structured or planned in advance.

Focus:

Leadership by design: This approach prioritizes organizational goals, strategies, and outcomes. Leaders who adopt this approach align their actions with the vision and mission of the organization, ensuring that their decisions and efforts contribute to the overall success of the team or company.

Leadership by desire: This approach emphasizes personal fulfillment and individual goals. Leaders who follow this approach may be more inclined to pursue projects or initiatives that align with their personal interests, passions, or strengths, even if they are not directly linked to the organizational goals.

Flexibility:

Leadership by design: This approach allows leaders to be adaptable and adjust their plans and strategies based on changing circumstances or feedback. They are open to revising their designs and processes to improve effectiveness and respond to evolving challenges.

Leadership by desire: This approach may be more resistant to change as leaders may be strongly attached to their personal desires or interests. They may be less willing to deviate from their desired path or explore alternative approaches.

Outcomes:

Leadership by design: The focus on intentional planning and alignment with organizational goals often leads to achieving specific targets and measurable outcomes. Leaders who adopt this approach strive for tangible results and the successful realization of their designed strategies.

Leadership by desire: The outcomes of leadership by desire can vary depending on the personal interests and desires of the leader. While it may lead to individual satisfaction and personal growth, the impact on organizational goals and objectives may be less predictable or consistent.

It's worth noting that these approaches are not mutually exclusive, and leaders can incorporate elements from both styles based on the situation and their own preferences. The choice of approach depends on the context, the leader's goals, the organizational culture, and the needs of the team or company.

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