I like to consider dynamics. A dynamic is the stimulation that occurs as a result of the interaction between opposing forces. The dynamic between being a leader and leadership is a fascinating phenomenon that is complex and abstruse. Being a leader and having leadership is dynamically different. A leader is a person who holds a position of responsibility and being in that position they often confuse authority with influence. Authority is extremely limited in its influence, and what it can accomplish. Authoritarian leaders confuse their authority (based on their position) with their ability to influence.
The difference between influence and authority is significant yet clandestine. Deep down in the heart of the authoritarian leader is the realization that they don’t have what they need to influence people. Something is missing inside them because they aren’t succeeding like they thought they would. Far too often the leader chooses to double down on their authority rather than their responsibility, which is the single most destructive choice a leader makes. The abuse of authority is an indicator that the leader does not have the ability to influence themselves or others. The reckless disregard for the use of authority is destructive, painful, and unnecessary. Instead of expressing humility and learning to be responsible and therefore authentic, they skip the learning process and in arrogance, they exercise more authority. They say things like, “I’m the leader”, “I’m in charge”, and “It’s my name on the building!” Authoritarian leaders fully engage in telling people what to do, and they become the lid over the imagination and innovation of their people’s performance. Authoritarian leaders limit their people. Authoritarian leaders sustain dysfunction rather than the full functioning of themselves and their people.