Free Leadership Studies: Research Interest Essay Sample

In my academic and professional journey, I have encountered many people who have told me that I am an excellent teacher or coach. However, I have never been complimented for being a great leader. This has caused me to ponder whether an individual’s aptitude for leadership is something natural and innate, or whether it is something that one develops overtime as he or she advances themselves personally and professionally. Determining whether leadership qualities are an aspect of a genetic predisposition in human beings is an area of interest in leadership studies that I am particularly fascinated with and seek to unravel. In my life, I have experienced a vast spectrum of leadership capacities in those whom I have met that spans outstanding to mediocre performance. I have come to appreciate strong and effective leadership as being a true art or craft. I believe that powerful leadership constitutes a set of skills that many are born with, and that few people can learn or train to become charismatic or transformational leaders. Through my research, I aim to explore information and evidence that can substantiate my belief. Our study of Dr. King’s work and the “Great Man Theory” further inspired me to pursue this research interest in leadership studies. He was a leader who stands out as having been born with a natural gift and ability to motivate others and catalyze monumental change on a global scale. He, like other successful leaders, embodied the qualities of dedication, compassion, innovation, and ingenuity. In my research, I intend to examine other leadership theories that our greatest leaders employed or developed in their journeys. By way of this thorough review and examination, I hope to arrive at an answer to my initial question as to whether leaders are born or made.