What is Leadership?

The Six Rungs to the Leadership Ladder

​According to The Honorable Judith Ann Lanzinger, Justice, Ohio Supreme Court, leadership is a ladder. She presented the featured keynote address at the 2016 Leadership Academy graduation ceremony in March. The event was held at the Stranahan Theater.

​Justice Lanzinger described leadership as an abstract concept and outlined “The Six Rungs to the Leadership Ladder.” She urged graduates to build on the ladder, hone their strengths, and continue to grow throughout their leadership journey.

According to Justice Lanzinger, the rungs in ascending order are the following:

1. Talent
   Analyze your strengths and weaknesses and use them to your advantage. Justice Lanzinger offered, “good leaders will know themselves and recognize talent.” Leaders don’t simply build their own talents, but help support and nurture the talents of others.
   
   
2. Training
   Leaders are never done learning and they take advantage of learning opportunities from experts. Justice Lanzinger urged graduates to never stop pursuing educational opportunities.
   
   
3. Timing
   Carpe diem! Recognize opportunities that your circumstances provide and use them for good. No moment can be perfectly planned, so don't wait for the perfect moment if you find something that will move you toward your goal.
   
   
4. Tenacity
   To be a good leader, hold on during adversity and always get up and try again. If something acts as a barrier to your dream, don't give up. Find a way to get in the side door when the front door is closed.
   
   
5. Trustworthiness
   Justice Lanzinger implored, “what you say means something.” Arguably the most important characteristic for leaders and those entering public service is that great leaders always act and speak in a truthful and trusting manner.
   
   
6. Treasure
   Everyone has a treasure in that they have their identity and their values. Protect your treasure in who you are, your personal values, and say no to those items that take away from your treasures.

 
Thank you to Justice  Lanzinger for joining the Leadership Academy Class of 2016 at their graduation ceremony! For more information on Leadership Academy, please contact Tim Schneider or visit www.toledochamber.com

---

Do you have a story or would you like to feature something exciting happening in your business? Please contact Emily Dammeyer, Communications Manager, Toledo Regional Chamber of Commerce.