writing a Response Assignment discussing the ideas in “Cultivate Positive Identities,” a chapter written by Laura M. Roberts in Jane E. Dutton and Gretchan M. Spreitzer’s book. How to Be a Positive Leader: Small Actions, Big Impact. The paper must accurately paraphrase and present the ideas you’ll select to put down about, but it must discuss your personal responses to those ideas.
Guidelines:
Begin with the bibliographic entry. (To let the reader know about the source (the writer, chapter/article, and book), begin the Response with a bibliographic entry. The common format for this information is as follows:
“Title of the Chapter/Article.” Author’s name. Book Title. Author(s). Place of Publication: Publisher, date of publication. Number of pages.
An introduction or an opening paragraph that is a restatement of the central idea and the author’s purpose in the chapter/article or the authors’ purpose in the book, followed by your evaluation. As well, the opening should be interesting and engaging to the reader. If the chapter raises some questions that you will explore later, you may very briefly outline them here but avoid listing. That is, this brief opening paragraph lets the reader know what direction your discussion will take, so state your evaluation. In the remaining section of the Response, you are free to select four ideas for your
discussion.
Use present tense in referring to the author and the reading—for example, “the author states” instead of “the author stated;” “the chapter contains” instead of “the chapter contained.”
Title of the Chapter/Article: “Cultivate Positive Identities.”
Author: Laura M. Roberts.
Book Title: “How to Be a Positive Leader: Small Actions, Big Impact.”
Authors: Jane E. Dutton and Gretchen M. Spreitzer.
Place of Publication: San Francisco: Berrett-Koehler Publishers, 2014.
Number of Pages: Chapter 6, pages 93-116.
In “Cultivate Positive Identities,” Laura M. Roberts explores the concept of cultivating positive identities in leadership and its significance in fostering a positive work environment. Roberts argues that leaders can positively influence their teams by crafting identities that emphasize strengths, values, and shared purpose. She emphasizes that positive leadership identities can help create an atmosphere of trust, appreciation, and mutual support within an organization.
Roberts’ exploration of the power of positive identities resonated with me on a personal and professional level. Her concept of cultivating a positive identity as a leader aligns with my belief that leadership is not solely about authority but also about setting an example and inspiring others. The idea that leaders can consciously shape their identities to promote positivity and trust reinforces the notion that leadership is a dynamic and adaptable skill.
One key point that stood out to me was Roberts’ emphasis on authenticity in leadership identities. She suggests that leaders should embrace their authentic selves while also aligning their identity with the organization’s values. This resonates with my view that effective leadership should not involve putting on a facade but rather being genuine and true to oneself. Authentic leadership identities, as Roberts argues, can create a more open and transparent workplace culture.
Another idea I found compelling was the importance of shared purpose in leadership identities. Roberts discusses how leaders can craft identities that emphasize a shared mission and purpose with their teams. This reminded me of the power of a collective vision in driving motivation and collaboration. It highlighted the role of leaders in articulating and reinforcing this shared purpose to create a cohesive and committed team.
Additionally, Roberts’ discussion of strengths-based leadership identities struck a chord with me. She suggests that leaders should focus on their strengths and leverage them to inspire and guide their teams. This concept aligns with my belief in the importance of self-awareness and continuous self-improvement as a leader. Recognizing and utilizing one’s strengths can lead to more effective and impactful leadership.
In conclusion, Laura M. Roberts’ chapter on cultivating positive identities in leadership offers valuable insights into the role of identity in creating a positive work environment. Her ideas about authenticity, shared purpose, and strengths-based leadership identities have deepened my understanding of effective leadership. I believe that these concepts will not only shape my approach to leadership but also contribute to fostering a positive and productive workplace for my team.