Uncertainty
Uncertainty creates the necessary condition for leadership.
— Jim Kouzes
As I reflected on this quote, I think what Mr. Kouzes is saying is that if everyone knows exactly what to do and where we’re going, why do they need a leader? A leader is needed precisely when there is a lack of clarity.
I like to think of the analogy of my college flag football team. In the huddle, players may suggest routes and ideas to the quarterback. If the quarterback doesn’t provide some direction in the huddle and call a specific play or specific routes problems will show up as soon as he yells “hike.” Without a clear play called, everyone will improvise - which is another word for “running around like a chicken with its head cut off.” On the other hand, if the quarterback calls a clear play - even though he’s uncertain how the defense will react - the team stands a much better chance of succeeding following his lead.
Our team certainly lived this principle out. We had a good run of four or five wins in a row where we played as a team following the calls of our quarterback for the most part. In the end we lost our final game to a team with more talent, and perhaps it could be argued better leadership. The quarterback of the other team was far more confident and clear in his play calling - perhaps because he played football for the local city college. I guess the lesson there is that experience, talent, and clarity in the face of uncertainty defeats clarity all by itself. It’s one of those package deals.