Queen Elizabeth provided a poignant perspective on leadership with her address to the United Nations this week. She last addressed the UN general assembly in 1957, when she looked forward to a time when the institution had "firmly established" the values of "justice and respect".Fifty-three years later her focus was on maintaining the UN's strong record on "the waging of peace" through "clear and convening leadership".
"I know of no single formula for success, but over the years I have observed that some attributes of leadership are universal, and are often about finding ways of encouraging people to combine their efforts, their talents, their insights, their enthusiasm and their inspiration, to work together."
The speech on cooperation also resonates with listeners in England who now face the political realities of the coalition.As one thinks about political leaders, and leaders closer to home, in organizations and communities, her quote rings true. Good leaders encourage other people to use their gifts and build on each others' strengths.
