"I have been up against tough competition all my life. I wouldn't know how to get along without it."
~Walt Disney
Walt Disney is a legend; a folk hero of the 20th century. His worldwide popularity was based upon the ideas which his name represents: imagination, optimism, creation, and self-made success in the American tradition. He brought us closer to the future, while telling us of the past. Can you imagine a world that was not touched by Walt Disney? Walt Disney transformed the entertainment industry into what we know today. He pioneered the fields of animation, and found new ways to teach, and educate. Walt Disney exemplifies the meaning of leadership.
A turning point in Disney's life was a result of his time spent in World War I. Upon his return, Disney set his sights on his passion of creating dreams and bringing reality to his fantasies. Walt Disney was a man with high Emotional Intelligence – his strong leadership
qualities were very pragmatic because of his understanding of the people around him. He believed that you should never stop dreaming, as it leads to the formation of new ideas and gives you a sense of purpose and direction. Though he suffered huge setbacks in his life, he had the courage to keep going on. His story of struggle and success teaches us an important leadership lesson – leaders need to have the tenacity to chase a dream or goal. This is what will make a true leader stand apart. This person should be the motivating factor to urge his team on towards the finishing line. The leader should encourage others to make their dreams a reality.
A hands-on leader and always a risk taker, Walt Disney was driven by his passion to advance animation and create the ultimate production. Constantly extending the boundaries of technology, Disney was confident enough in himself to empower his subordinates and delegate tasks to others. Above all else, Disney understood that change was essential to maintain success. That is why nearly 45 years since his death; his empire remains dedicated to his dream and as profitable as his vision. This is the symbol of a true leader.
A turning point in Disney's life was a result of his time spent in World War I. Upon his return, Disney set his sights on his passion of creating dreams and bringing reality to his fantasies. Walt Disney was a man with high Emotional Intelligence – his strong leadership
qualities were very pragmatic because of his understanding of the people around him. He believed that you should never stop dreaming, as it leads to the formation of new ideas and gives you a sense of purpose and direction. Though he suffered huge setbacks in his life, he had the courage to keep going on. His story of struggle and success teaches us an important leadership lesson – leaders need to have the tenacity to chase a dream or goal. This is what will make a true leader stand apart. This person should be the motivating factor to urge his team on towards the finishing line. The leader should encourage others to make their dreams a reality.
A hands-on leader and always a risk taker, Walt Disney was driven by his passion to advance animation and create the ultimate production. Constantly extending the boundaries of technology, Disney was confident enough in himself to empower his subordinates and delegate tasks to others. Above all else, Disney understood that change was essential to maintain success. That is why nearly 45 years since his death; his empire remains dedicated to his dream and as profitable as his vision. This is the symbol of a true leader.
References
Thomas, B. (1986). Walt Disney: Magician of the movies. New York, NY: Grosset & Dunlap.