Experienced vs. New Ideas

Recent announcements by Obama have caught the attention of skeptics and advocates alike. Many of his economic committee and advisors are who's who in their field, lending extensive experience to the one-term senator who now has the most powerful job on earth (or is it still?).

Hence, the talk around town has been, "what ever happened to change?"

In the Wall Street Journal (Nov 26) article, "Obama works on economic plan; Volcker tapped for advisory role", Mr Obama was quoted as saying that "what we are going to do is combine experience with fresh thinking, but understand where the vision for change comes from, first and foremost. It comes from me."

You see, Hitler led an army in an attempt to wipe out the Jews, while Churchill led an army to liberate a nation. In order to achieve the aims of either man, a strong, competent, and dedicated force was needed. However the main difference lies in their vision.

Henceforth, in Obama's case, he needed a team that is strong, competent, and dedicated too. His team must have individuals who have the expertise to complete the task. The task where he envisaged, which is to change not only America, but also the world.

Seen in this context, what we can learn from is that, a leader must, first and foremost, have a vision that has good intentions. After which, you will then engage others in meaningful ways so that you can expand your circle of influence so that, while recognising others' strengths, expertise, and differences. In this way, you will then be able to lead them into the professional arena to collectively achieve the higher order goal.

So, with change at the back of his mind, and putting together a strong team, Obama will, and can succeed in this new economy.