"On Becoming a Leader" by Warren Bennis is a thoughtful, timeless piece on what it takes to be a true leader—not just in the workplace but in life. For anyone who feels the weight of leadership on their shoulders or wonders what makes a good leader stand apart, Bennis has some enlightening perspectives. I didn’t just read this book; I felt like I was absorbing it, connecting with each page as if it was personally calling me to rethink my understanding of leadership.

• Leadership as Self-Discovery

Bennis redefines leadership not as a title or position but as an ongoing journey of self-awareness. This hit home for me; real leadership isn’t about a fixed set of skills but a willingness to know oneself deeply and honestly. He emphasizes that leaders aren’t born; they are made through a process of self-discovery and personal growth.

• Authenticity is Key

One of Bennis's core arguments is that effective leaders are authentic. They don’t just know themselves; they are comfortable with themselves. This idea felt refreshing—leadership isn’t about imitating someone else or trying to fit a mold. Bennis suggests that when we are authentic, people can trust us, and that trust becomes a powerful, grounding force in leading others.

• Learning from Adversity

Another big takeaway was Bennis's idea of "crucibles." He argues that great leaders are shaped by the challenges they face, not by avoiding them. This reminded me of times when I've been through my own trials, and how, though difficult, those experiences led to profound learning. Bennis doesn’t glamorize adversity; instead, he shows that it’s essential for growth.

• Curiosity and Lifelong Learning

Bennis doesn’t see learning as something that ends with a degree or a title. Instead, he encourages a “beginner’s mind” and a constant thirst for knowledge. He shows that good leaders are endlessly curious, always eager to learn from those around them. This is a trait I’ve admired in the leaders I look up to, and Bennis made me see how essential it is to cultivate curiosity in myself.

• Building Meaningful Relationships

True leadership, Bennis argues, is about fostering genuine connections. Leaders need to inspire and be inspired by those they work with. Bennis describes this as “an interconnectedness with others.” For me, this was one of the more challenging yet inspiring parts of the book. It’s a reminder that leadership isn’t about elevating oneself above others but growing alongside them.

• Vision and Purpose

According to Bennis, leaders aren’t just focused on what is; they’re obsessed with what could be. They have a vision for a better future and a purpose that drives them. Reading this, I reflected on my own aspirations. Bennis pushes readers to find that sense of purpose within themselves, creating a vision not just for their careers but for their lives.

• Leadership is a Choice

Bennis concludes that leadership isn’t just for CEOs or political figures—it’s a choice open to anyone. This resonated because it reframes leadership as something anyone can cultivate, rather than something you’re either born with or not. It’s about choosing to grow, to challenge oneself, and to live with purpose and integrity.

Reading On Becoming a Leader felt like sitting down with a wise mentor. Bennis’s tone is warm and encouraging, and he never makes leadership sound unattainable. He makes it clear that it’s not an end goal but a journey, full of self-discovery, mistakes, and growth. This book didn’t just give me insights into leadership—it left me feeling empowered to lead in my own unique way.