“We argue here that the four factors we identify as constituting the foundation for being a leader and the effective exercise of leadership can also be seen as the foundations not only for great leadership, but also for a high quality personal life and an extraordinary organization. One can see this as a “value free” approach to values because, 1) integrity as we define it (being whole and complete) is a purely positive proposition, 2) authenticity is also a purely positive proposition (being and acting consistent with who you hold yourself out to be for others and who you hold yourself to be for yourself), and 3) being committed to something bigger than oneself is also a purely positive proposition (that says nothing about what that commitment should be other than it be bigger than oneself). ”
1. Authenticity:
Being and acting consistent with who you hold yourself out to be for others, and who you hold yourself out to be for yourself. When leading, being authentic leaves yuo grounded, and able to be straight without using force.
2. Being Cause In the Matter of Everything In Your Life:
Being Cause in the Matter is a stand you take for yourself and life – and acting from that stand. It leaves yuo wil power. You are never a victim.
3. Being Committed to Something Bigger than Oneself:
Source of the serene passion (charisma) required to lead and to develop others as leaders, and the source of persistence (joy in the labor of) when the path gets tough.
4. Integrity (in our model a positive phenomenon):
Being whole and complete – achieved by “honoring one’s word” (creates workability, develops trust).
from The Four Foundations of a Great Personal Life, Great Leadership and a Great Organization, by Werner Erhard and Michael C. Jensen, May 3, 2012; posted at SSRN