Leadership & Character | New York, NY

A group of Wake Foresters gathered over dinner in New York City, NY on February 13, 2019 to discuss Leadership & Character.

Overview and highlights of our Call to Conversation:

• A consistent theme that weaved through the conversation was the idea of service leadership – serving something larger than yourself. On the question of when do leadership and character overlap, the group agreed that individuals committing themselves to a larger purpose most often lead with character.
• Small things matter – seeds for character are sown with small, every day action — what we do when no one’s looking matters. People are looking to be inspired from large actions and examples; but everyday life offers opportunities to demonstrate character (courage) and are vital to building a societal norm and expectation.
• Taking ownership and accountability are markers of character.
• Can character be taught? We had some differing thoughts here. Is it within you by nature? Or perhaps it can be modeled, inspired.
• Doing the right thing in the face of adversity or risk is at the heart of character — sacrifice, courage and respect for others.