76. I agree that decisiveness is one clear mark of an effective leader. However, the
speaker goes further to make the dual claim that decision-making is the most difficult
and the most important aspect of a leaders job. In my view, this additional claim
amounts to an overstatement that fails to consider other aspects of a leaders job that are
either difficult or important.
First of all, decisiveness is not necessarily the most difficult aspect of a leaders
job. In fact, leaders rise to their positions typically because decisiveness comes easily or
naturally to them. In this sense, the speakers claim runs contrary to actual experience.
Also, for some leaders the stress and the burden of their job pose more difficulties for
them than the mere act of making decisions. For other leaders, balancing professional
and personal life, or even time management in general, may be the most challenging
aspect of the job, since leaders are typically very busy people.
Secondly, decisiveness is not necessarily the key factor in determining the quality
of leadership. Decisiveness does not guarantee a good decision. An effective leader
must also have wisdom, perspective, clear vision, judgment, and courage. Moreover,
other factors such as trust and respect for others may be equally or more critical, since
subordinates may not be willing to devote themselves to the plans and goals of a leader
they mistrust or hold in low regard. Even the best decision will be of little value without
the commitment of others to carry it out. Simply put, without someone to lead. a person
cannot be a leader.
To sum up, I agree with the speaker only insofar as the ability to make decisions is
a necessary ingredient of successful leadership. However, decision-making is not
necessarily the most difficult aspect of every leaders job; nor is it necessarily the most
important factor in determining the effectiveness of a leader.