Leading with Character

By John J. Sosik The Pennsylvania State UniversityGreat Valley School of Graduate Professional StudiesWhat kind of character strengths must leaders develop in themselves and others to create and sustainextraordinary organizational growth and performance? In this updated and expanded second edition theauthor John J. Sosik answers this question by reviewing what is known about the connection betweenauthentic transformational leadership and positive psychology. He summarizes a wealth of leadershipknowledge in a unique collection of captivating stories about 25 famous leaders from business history andpop culture: Aung San Suu Kyi John F. Kennedy Maya Angelou Bill Gates Brian Wilson Rosa ParksMartin Luther King Jr. Joe Namath Malala Yousafzai Mother Teresa Angelina Jolie Pope Saint JohnPaul II Shirley Chisholm Sheryl Sandberg Andy Griffith Margaret Thatcher Oprah Winfrey NelsonMandela Warren Buffet Carlos Ghosn Eleanor Roosevelt Herb Kelleher Steve Jobs Johnny Cash and Fred Rogers.What do these leaders have in common? Each possesses virtues of wisdom courage humanity justice temperance and transcendence and theirassociated character strengths that form the foundation of their outstanding leadership. Besides generating astonishing results for their organizationsthese leaders reaped numerous physical mental social and spiritual benefits from their strong character. Their stories teach readers leadershipprinciples that they too can apply to achieve sustainable growth and excellence. The author includes dozens of interesting examples vivid anecdotesand clear guidelines to offer readers an in-depth look at how character and virtue forms the moral fiber of authentic transformational leadership.Individuals currently in leadership positions as well as aspiring leaders will find the book's conversational style fascinating stories and practicalguidelines both useful and inspiring.