The codes of leadership

Leadership has emerged since the dawn of humanity; societies have always needed leaders to guide them and move them forward. Leadership is the process of influencing, creating change, setting a vision, and achieving desired goals by spreading that vision. A leader is the person who successfully manages and executes this process.

A leader is someone who directs and influences people, motivating them to ensure coordination and integration for the realization of the group's or community's goals. In other words, leadership is the art of directing and persuading people to achieve set objectives. Leadership does not merely mean holding a position or title; it also involves earning people's trust, making decisions, providing direction, and assuming responsibility when necessary. Looking at the historical process, it is evident that leaders have not always benefited the societies they led, and at times, they have caused great harm.

Briefly looking at the characteristics of a leader; it is important for them to have a scientific understanding of management and to be able to grasp situations at first glance through their knowledge and skills. The ability to adapt to situations and demonstrate diligence in their duties requires them to act with common sense under all circumstances. The ability to create and evaluate opportunities, as well as the skill to look after the physical and mental well-being of their subordinates, are also among the fundamental elements of leadership. They must be able to show resilience in the face of unexpected events; while maintaining a simple demeanor, they must preserve their moral and material courage.

They must possess strong logic, especially mental resilience, and the capacity to take risks. They must be able to keep up with "moral and honorable" changes, evaluate opportunities with determination, and effectively apply the talents they possess. They should be inquisitive, intuitive, and hardworking. They must have the ability to motivate both themselves and their subordinates; they should demonstrate knowledge and practical skills at tactical, operational, and strategic levels. They must be able to turn their thoughts into practice, act with a sense of justice, and possess a broad and rational imagination. They must be able to make decisions with a cool head, take responsibility, empathize, and build trust.

In conclusion, a leader is someone who moves toward goals they have set themselves and can master their will under any circumstances. A manager, on the other hand, is often tasked with achieving goals set by others. A leader must be a bastion of stability. They should not waver from their decisions based on the conditions of the day or temporary influences; they should not surrender to their emotions in matters that can be solved with reason and common sense.

A leader must be able to create a free environment where people around them can express their thoughts openly. The person who must learn and understand the truth is the leader. Truths only emerge in free environments. A leader who surrounds themselves with walls of fear can never reach the truth. Where fear prevails, sincerity and respect cannot take root; truth departs before it can enter.

A leader is someone who resists to the end without giving up on the values they believe in and their goals, even if they do not receive the appreciation they deserve. Doing what others achieve with difficulty is an indicator of talent; however, achieving what even talented people see as impossible is the work of genius. "A manager climbs the ladder to success effectively. A leader determines whether the ladder is leaning against the right wall." That is exactly the point.

Finally; when the time comes, a leader remains silent and acts as a shield so that centuries-old values are not harmed. This is one of the most important and difficult aspects of leadership. However, yesterday a light appeared on the steppes, the leader's silence ended, and the historical journey has begun...

Prof. Dr. Duran BÜLBÜL