The ability to inspire . . .

I just watched Barack Obama’s 2004 Democratic Convention speech and realized something. Leadership, true leadership is rooted in the ability to inspire. Its not just being the smartest person in the room or the tallest, best looking person with the deepest voice. It is about finding that inner truth about oneself and being confident and human enough to share it with everyone that defines the true meaning of leadership. Somewhere in transit, that inner confidence strikes a chord in another person, another person, and yet another person and inspiration happens. Leadership happens because no matter what you say, that connection, trust and bond you have just created will allow others to stop and listen to what you have to say and give you the benefit of doubt that your vision is consistent with their values. And so leadership happens.

I think Barack really understands on a human level this connection that can happen in a big crowd or with one person, one at a time. Its this ability, this quality of inspiring others even when he is criticized (including by myself several times in conversation) that he is too abstract or too dreamy that will attract those around him to believe in his vision and put in the work to achieve that vision. Having seen the fruits of leadership in several institutions now, the leader not only sets the vision, but creates a culture within their organization within which the work of achieving that vision happens. Whether its in a residency program who attracts the right kinds of residents and lets them be their friendly, caring selves or a business that attracts the brightest but also most competitive individuals that do not like to work together, it is ultimately the leadership who sets the cultural tone for the organization and inspires others to either work for the common good or work for themselves. I believe that I’ve underestimated this quality, this ability to inspire the best in others that Barack possesses which is so vital to leadership. I’ve become so mired in memorizing molecular minutia in medical school that perhaps I’ve lost the perspective that its seeing the big picture that may matter most in the end. Vote for Barack Obama in November!