Bill Clinton—Blog 3
WorldNetDaily reporter, Geoff Metcalf, interviewed Professor Fred Greenstein, author of The Presidential Difference: Leadership Style from FDR to Clinton. When asked of former President Clinton’s emotional intelligence, one leadership capacity he seems to lack, Greenstein replies, “…it is an undisciplined presidency—and it is an undisciplined man” (cited in Metcalf, p. 2). This is evidenced by the highly publicized antics in Clinton’s personal life. However, because of Clinton’s charisma and leadership style, a vast majority of Americans appear to have forgiven his indiscretions.
Another of Fullan’s identified leadership capacities, moral purpose, describes Bill Clinton. Despite his indiscretions and poor decisions regarding his personal life, his love for our country and dedication to improving American lives was maintained throughout his presidency. He did not lose sight of the bigger picture as president of the greatest country in the world. As Handy (2002) states, “A worthwhile life…requires you to have a purpose beyond yourself” (cited in Fullan, 2005, p. 3).
Knowledge building and sharing are Clinton’s strongest assets. He retains a plethora of facts and figures and possesses an excellent memory. He prepares and studies to know the context of his environment. Clinton shared his expertise, resulting in leadership that is sustainable. Collins (2001) states, “…good-to-great leaders channel ambition into the company, not the self; and set up successors for even greater success in the next generation” (cited in Fullan, 2005, p. 4). Leaders leave behind other leaders, as evidenced by Barack Obama’s cabinet members, some of whom we recognize from the Clinton era.
References
Collins, J. (2001). t.Good to great. New York: HarperCollins.
Fullman, M., Ph.D. (2005). Leadership ad sustainability. Center for development and learning. Retrieved from http://www.cdl.org/resource-library/articles/ldr_sustainability.php
Greenstein, Fred (Interviewee) & Metcalf, Geoff (Interviewer). U.S. leadership style: FDR to Clinton. Retrieved from www.geoffmetcalf.com/qu/19639.html
Handy, C. (2002). The elephant and the flea. London, Hutchinson.
Metcalf, Geoff (Interviewer) & Greenstein, Fred (Interviewee). U.S. leadership style: FDR to Clinton. Retrieved from www.geoffmetcalf.com/qu/19639.html
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I have heard from many people who've witnessed a speech in person that Bill Clinton is one of the most charismatic speakers they've ever heard. His power, presence, and uncanny ability to touch people is quite unique. While I haven't always admired his actions, I do admire his passion and drive. Like my leader, Oprah Winfrey, you can tell that he is "living" the work that he loves. Leadership appears effortless when people are in positions that feed their mind and their soul. Both Bill Clinton and Oprah are living lives that effect positive change in the world. Can any leader ask for more?
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