Welcome to the Summer Camp Leadership blog. For those of us who lead summer camps, making a positive difference in the lives of young people is our passion. Turning that passion into a reality, however, takes more than the ability to lead songs, teach archery or plan craft projects. Creating camp experiences that truly transform lives takes leadership. Leadership that creates a vision for the future, leadership that inspires and engages others, leadership that remains focused and stays the course. My hope is through this blog you'll find ideas, inspiration and tools to help you be a great summer camp leader.

Monday, January 16, 2012

Leadership Truths

One of the most highly respected books of all time on leadership is The Leadership Challenge by James Kouzes and Barry Posner. The book has helped shape how many think about the role of leaders. Their approach to leadership has become standard fare in business courses and leadership training programs.  

Three decades later after The Leadership Challenge,  Kouzes and Posner have revisited what it means to be a leader in their new book, The Truth About Leadership. They've identified ten truths from their years of researching, teaching and writing about leadership. Their truths include:
  1. You make a difference
  2. Credibility is the foundation of leadership
  3. Values drive commitment
  4. Focusing on the future sets leaders apart
  5. You can't do it alone
  6. Trust rules
  7. Challenge is the crucible for greatness 
  8. You either lead by example or you don't lead at all
  9. The best leaders are the best learners
  10. Leadership is an affair of the heart 
If you're looking for a book on leadership that's grounded in research, easy to read and applicable to the day-to-day challenges of summer camp leadership The Truth About Leadership is a great resource.


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