During Black history month various media formats highlight the contributions of African Americans across time. Some of the contributors are better known than others, but none are no less important than any other. Considering those who have come before, I began to think about what African American leaders have in common. What I came up with is BOLDNESS.
The Oxford American Desk Dictionary and Thesaurus (2001) defines bold as confidently assertive, adventurous, courageous, and gives synonyms such as brazen, and intrepid. Fredrick Douglas was courageous when he risked his freedom by publishing his autobiography. Josephine Baker was brazen in her fight against racism, only performing in integrated establishments. Mae Jemison was adventurous as she pioneered her way into space despite lacking astronaut mentors. Jack Johnson was intrepid as he lived his life in direct opposition of Jim Crow laws and mores, forcing “America to confront its definition of freedom…” (Ken Burns, http://www.pbs.org/unforgivableblackness/about/).
A few common characteristics of bold leaders are:
- Passion – The causes and philosophies that speak to your heart, that move your soul, will drive to you to take bold action.
- Fearlessness – Change is not easy, nor does it come cheap. Recognize your fears of being ostracized or jeered then assess the relative importance of the fear against the outcome of your cause. Moving past fear allows for bold steps forward.
- Clarity – Before you can lead other you must be clear on your cause, why it’s important, who will benefit and the best way to gain that benefit. When you are clear you are able to speak boldly, clearly, fearlessly and passionately.
- Communicator – Whether in writing or in speech bold leader are able to make connections, build relationships, and be understood.
While the above characteristics may be common they are not the only ones that contribute to bold leadership. Consider who you are as a leader and what makes you a bold leader.
Be a bold leader! Ascribe to your own definition of boldness! Recently, one of my coaching clients declared “I want to be a bold leader. That is, to fearlessly forge partnerships, negotiate deals, raise funds, speak to issues, compel/motivate/inspire and support others to join, lead and forward this work.” What a powerful statement!
Leadership Tip: Be Bold
“Do not be intimidated. Do not be harassed. Do not be silent. Be heard (pg. 311).”¹ BE BOLD.
1. Phillips, D.T. (1998). Martin Luther King, Jr. on Leadership. Warner Books: New York.
© 2012, Dr. Tonia Richardson. All rights reserved.
Tonia M. Richardson is the principle coach at Lotus Solutions where she helps African-American leaders perfect their professional wisdom. Tonia earned a Doctor of Management degree from the University of Phoenix specializing in organizational leadership.
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