ABSTRACT
The predominant belief in education system and even in elite business schools is that leadership, meaning the conscious use and control of emotions in a professional context, is not particularly relevant for corporate success and is at best subsumed under the term "soft skills". When dealing with their own thoughts and behaviour patterns managers sometimes criticise themselves for having negative emotions. The expression which best describes McKinsey's employee profile is the "insecure overachiever", who is to be found in many management positions. As long as the manager is in martyr mode he cannot be blamed, because he was pushed into his misery by others. Good and evil are clearly defined. Top managers, such as Leo Apotheker, are used to turning the big wheels, leading negotiations at the highest level and constantly jet-setting around the globe. A manager has successfully worked his way up to his position over the years and can proudly look back on previous successes.
