Lead-A-Ship

I postulated a Leadership Theory in 2013 when I was taking part in a One month Training for Agribusiness Professionals.  The program was organised by Engineers Without Borders, Ghana under the auspices of Mobile Business Clinic. I was representing Green Coast Foods (Fresh233.com) as we were known then. We had just started our convenient grocery delivery service and so this training came at a good time. The program run on three modules. Leadership,  Financial Management and Project management. 

It was during the Leadership session where I postulated this Theory.

Leadership. I broke down the word as such LEAD-A-SHIP and quickly sketched what I had seen in my mind’s eye. 

Theory: Leadership in this instance can be seen as a Captain manning a Ship. So the Captain leads the Ship. No one was born a Captain, but every captain was trained to undertake tasks  on the sea. Now there are some people who have the Charisma to be leaders at the go. Remember that guy who was Class Prefect from class 1 to class 6 during your Primary school days? The teacher looks at him and says 'you should be the class prefect'. Remember that one guy who was School Prefect?
So some people are born leaders but everyone at any point in our lives will be called to play a Leadership role before we live this world hence the need to learn and practice how to be a leader.
A leader being the captain of the ship is Responsible for the ship and everyone on the ship. The leader need to know where the ship is from and where the ship is going (Vision). The leader needs to know how to get there (Mission).

A leader like the captain has to know the needs of the people on his ship. Now since he cannot be everywhere at all times, there is the need to learn how to delegate duties.
A leader like the captain should have a plan. A detailed plan with time lines and contingencies knowing when to do what and what resources will be required as the Captain will need his Compass and the help of a Satellite to navigate his way to his destination. 

It is important to note that on the deep blue seas it's always not a cool ride. There are destructions and challenges and like Captain Phillips you may be attacked by pirates. There may be a storm with turbulence that will hinder your plan and cause your crew to be sea sick. In this same instance as a leader challenges will come. There is then the need to be calm and ask for the view of your subordinates. It is just by keeping calm and being in charge that those around you will trust you.
As a captain and leader, you lead-the-ship. Every business owner is a leader and has to learn to lead. The term leader is just a superficial term for 'Servant' really. A leader has the sole responsibility to Serve. Service to his crew and service to everyone on the Ship. 

To conclude I say that a leader is the captain of the ship and must know where he is headed so he does not lead the people to the wrong place. It won't be all good. Be prepared for the worst and always have a plan. Keep in mind that you are really a servant and thus the needs of others are prime. By helping enough others then will you help yourself. 

"the Best Culture is Agriculture"

Akwasi A. Tagoe