ABSTRACT
In the 31 interviews with leaders from different industries, sectors, countries, and in various stages of their careers, my goal was to understand how people learn to lead. I wanted to see how volatile, complex situations shape the perceptions and beliefs of leaders. I was also interested in whether leaders look at routine, everyday experiences in a distinctive way. And I was curious about their role models and other infl uences. By answering the question of “how good leaders learn,” and not simply “what makes a good leader,” I hoped to discover important insights into how management educators and organizations alike can help people to become good leaders. Equally important, I wanted to show the next generation of leaders as well as current leaders some of the paths they can take to develop or enhance the leadership qualities vital to their continuing success.
