Date of Award
2014
Document Type
Action Research Project
Degree Name
Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership
Department
Organizational Leadership
First Advisor
Gene Scheffler
Department/School
Organizational Leadership
Abstract
The focus of this Leadership Action Project is to explore how the ethical will can inspire authentic leadership. Authentic Leadership theory is predicated on the growth of self-knowledge and self-awareness in a leader. These twin notions, developed through practical experience and lifelong reflection, inform a leader’s legacy of values, beliefs, and behavior. Due to the immediacy of daily challenges, modern leaders often lack the presence of mind to reflect on their crucible experiences and practical wisdom. As a result of this lack of contemplation, these leaders do not extract as much self-knowledge and self-awareness from their personal ethical legacies. The ethical will, a document designed to articulate an author’s values and life experiences as a legacy for others, can be a practical medium for inspiring authentic leadership. The research findings inform a set of recommended best processes for inspiring authentic leadership through writing an ethical will.
Recommended Citation
McIlree, Andrew J.. (2014). Nothing to Remember Except the Story: How the Ethical Will Inspires Authentic Leadership. Retrieved from Sophia, the St. Catherine University repository website: https://sophia.stkate.edu/maolhonors/9