The Yellow Brick Road of Leadership

Abstract

This paper demonstrates that the discipline of leading people to successful ends requires a unique combination of knowledge, skills, and abilities. The author examines leadership through the lens of L. Frank Baum’s ‘The Wonderful Wizard of Oz’. The reader will learn that a leader’s success is dependent upon a belief in oneself, having a goal for a better future, wisdom, emotional intelligence, and a willingness to take action. Throughout this paper you will learn that developing these combined capabilities is a journey, a road filled with difficulties and obstacles. The author concludes that Baum’s fantasy provides a platform for leaders and students of leadership to reflect and gain perspective on their own journey down the yellow brick road of leadership.