"Inspired Authority" fosters growth without abuse or abdication.

Listening builds trust; understand the needs and strengths of those you lead.

Model desired behaviors; influence comes from example, not lectures.

Celebrate achievements and qualities, enriching culture and connections.

We occasionally talk about someone holding authority abusively, and almost never ask how authority can be held effectively and creatively. There is little consideration of how to optimize the exercise of authority. I have heard varying remarks about the abdication of authority. Those enjoying little or no interference from an authority figure seem to be comfortable in the presence of abdication. Those folks who want clear direction and substantive developmental feedback are annoyed by a leader who abdicates authority.

When authority is described as abusive, it suggests that someone or a group feels mistreated and not taken into account by those in authority. The mistreatment can be characterized by shame, blame, ridicule, sarcasm, and neglect. This easily occurs when a leader acts with the perspective that the ends justify the means. In that case, the outcome is prioritized, not how people feel getting there. When authority figures feel inadequate or scared, they often compensate by using power and don’t consider its ramifications. Abuse can also result when leaders get attached to........

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