The Secret of Leadership: Leaders are like teabags

Often the piles of books about leadership gyan at the bookstores draw a lot of criticism, since many see these books as telling nothing concrete. However, authors writing them are always on top of the best-seller lists worldwide. One of these authors is Prakash Iyer. His book “The Secret of Leadership' is slated for launch this month. Published by Penguin, the book boasts to use simple but powerful anecdotes and parables from all over the world to demonstrate what makes for effective personal and professional leadership. 

“The Secret of Leadership” has a line in its description included “Leaders are like teabags. Only when you put them in hot water do you know how strong they really are.” I'm bowled out by the line. But one line can't alone teach you how to lead. It involves much more. But for that matter I don't criticize the books. These books can infuse a confidence in us and show us the path. But how to walk on the path is purely our effort and daring. 

Iyer further draws draws lessons from sources as diverse as his driver, a mother giraffe, Abraham Lincoln and footballers in the United Kingdom. It means the book does not alone live on the examples of those who are famous and well-off after their initial struggle. But it guides you to take inspiration from people as common as a driver. Iyer shows how an instinct to lead can be acquired while flipping burgers at a fast food chain. 

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