Triumphant Leadership Theory: Five Effective Leadership Principles Derived from the Shared Leadership Style, Methodologies, and Espoused Values of 12 of the World's Legendary Triumphant Leaders

By Felicia D. Shelton and Dr. Barry A Doublestein

Triumphant Leadership Theory stems from the shared effective leadership practices of 12 of the world's legendary triumphant leaders: Yeshua the Christ, Paul the Apostle, Queen Esther of Persia, Nehemiah, a Persian court official, Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela, Mother Teresa, Wangari Maathai, Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune, John Willard Marriott, Jr., Janic

• Language: English
• Publisher: Cocoon to Wings Publishing
• Release date: Dec 8, 2023
• ISBN: 9781953497697

Book preview

Introduction

It is undeniable: leadership effectiveness is an ongoing, vital element of organizational success and sustainability. However, leadership effectiveness is challenging in most organizations and societies worldwide. Albeit leadership exists at various levels worldwide, all leaders are not effective, especially when confronted with severe organizational or societal problems. Equally, mission achievement becomes increasingly cumbersome in times of uncertainty and turmoil. Despite some leaders’ best attempts to deal effectively with organizational ambiguity, few triumph in arduous circumstances. Leaders who have succeeded amid organizational uncertainty and turmoil are considered triumphant leaders. Undaunted, fearless, and mission-driven, triumphant leaders are rare and undeterred.

Name the truly triumphant leaders of Biblical, 20th-century, and modern-day epochs. Perhaps some of the most extraordinary Biblical leaders, including Yeshua the Christ, Paul the Apostle, Queen Esther of Persia, and Nehemiah, a Persian Court official, come to mind. Maybe pioneers history records as eight of the world’s most triumphant leaders such as Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela, first president of post-apartheid South Africa; Mother Teresa of Calcutta; Wangari Maathai, Green Belt Movement founder; Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune, Bethune Cookman College founder; John Willard Marriott, Jr., Marriott International, Inc. CEO; Janice Bryant Howroyd, ActOne Group Founder & CEO; Cheryl Bachelder, Popeyes former CEO; and Herb Kelleher, Southwest Airlines former CEO, President & Chairman, also spring to mind. This collection of leaders is likely to register high on the average person’s list of triumphant leaders because of their jubilant leadership legacies.

This study will delineate a theoretical perspective of triumphant leadership by examining the shared leadership style, methodologies, and espoused values of the collection of leaders previously mentioned. Drawing from centuries of these legendary leaders’ combined triumphant leadership outcomes, an in-depth study of how they effectively engaged with challenging organizational problems and resolved them will be analyzed to discover viable leadership imperatives of triumphant leadership. Gleaning insight over a vast span of history has much to teach us. What made them triumphant might remain applicable in contemporary leadership. This book provides insights into effective leadership practices for twenty-first-century leaders seeking to solve current and future organizational problems. The ensuing chapters will reveal what made the selected leaders triumphant. When dealing with leadership ambiguity and difficulty, this distinct group of leaders’ leadership strategies and practices are a perfect prescription for performance enhancement.

Chapter 1

The Triumphant

Leadership Difference

The most well-known corporate leadership philosophies cover a variety of techniques designed specifically for the requirements of corporate entities. It is commonly acknowledged that transformational leadership has a significant impact on the business sector. By communicating a compelling vision, establishing high standards, and fostering personal development, transformational leaders inspire and drive their people. Transformational leaders encourage creativity, innovation, and provide their staff with the freedom to own their work. Another prominent leadership style in the corporate realm is servant leadership. Servant leaders place a high priority on the welfare and growth of their team members, placing special emphasis on teamwork, empathy, and the creation of a positive workplace culture. They set an exemplary example by displaying humility and a strong dedication to meeting the needs of the company within stated requirements.

Comparatively, in ministry leadership, there are distinct styles that align with the spiritual and organizational dynamics of religious institutions or denominations. Pastoral leadership is a prevalent style within ministry contexts. Pastoral leaders focus on nurturing the spiritual growth and well-being of their congregations. They provide guidance, counseling, and pastoral care, leading with compassion and empathy. These leaders foster a sense of community, encourage participation, and facilitate spiritual development within their congregations. Another significant ministry leadership style is visionary leadership. Visionary leaders inspire and guide their religious communities by casting a compelling vision that aligns with the mission and values of their faith tradition. They mobilize their followers to work towards a shared purpose, often incorporating strategic planning, evangelism, and community outreach into their leadership approach.

Triumphant leadership stands out from these and other varying leadership styles because it not only collectively embodies the highest level of qualities from those styles; but it has a distinctive focus on fostering and achieving collective triumphs for the betterment of others. Because of this, triumphant leadership may ruffle feathers in social, political, financial, educational, relational, corporate, and other industries. Triumphant leaders are driven by a powerful vision that transcends personal accomplishments, personal gratification, personal vision, and personal success. Triumphant leadership encompasses and promotes the success and growth of the mission, vision and purpose announced to stakeholders. Success, for a triumphant leader, is measured far more in the impact and life-saving efforts that drive them, than capital gains. They possess a contagious sense of optimism and resilience that inspires others to overcome challenges and reach new heights; and to see a challenge, no matter how undaunting, and developing far-reaching solutions. Triumphant leaders excel at building a cohesive and motivated team, leveraging individual strengths, and fostering a collaborative environment where everyone feels valued and empowered.

In contrast to other leadership styles, triumphant leadership emphasizes the importance of perseverance and adaptability in the face of adversity. As we look at the chosen triumphant leaders for this study, this is evident. In the Earthly ministry of Yeshua The Christ and others; and in the corporate arena where faith in God, self and the vision created triumphant leaders like Cheryl Bachelder. Triumphant leaders understand that setbacks and failures are inevitable, but they view them as opportunities for growth and learning rather than as roadblocks. They lead by example, displaying unwavering determination and a willingness to take calculated risks, which encourages their team to embrace innovation and push the boundaries of what is possible. Triumphant leaders are not afraid to make tough decisions and take ownership of the outcomes. They inspire trust and loyalty through their integrity, transparency, and commitment to ethical standards. By consistently delivering results and fostering an environment of continuous improvement, triumphant leaders cultivate a legacy of success that extends far beyond their own tenure; realizing that leaders must do more than transform and inspire now, they must create strategic and intentional impact for future generations.

Triumphant leadership incorporates foresight as a crucial component of its framework. Triumphant leaders possess a keen ability to anticipate future trends and challenges, enabling them to develop strategic plans and make informed decisions. By proactively identifying potential obstacles and opportunities, they can steer their team towards success. Their foresight allows them to adapt to changing circumstances, navigate uncertainty, and capitalize on emerging trends, ensuring that their organization stays ahead of the curve.

Inspiration is another key element of triumphant leadership. Triumphant leaders have a deep passion for their work and a compelling vision that energizes and motivates their team. Through their words and actions, they inspire others to believe in the mission and strive for excellence. They lead by example, demonstrating unwavering dedication, resilience, and a positive attitude. Their ability to connect with and inspire individuals on a personal level fosters a sense of purpose and commitment among team members, propelling them to achieve extraordinary results.

Each of the leaders examined in the coming chapters had a life mission much larger than themselves. They introduced a vision that significantly resonated with their followers and adeptly addressed difficult situations by providing effective resolutions to disconcerting organizational and societal problems. They are prominent exemplars of triumphant leadership, yielding a wealth of evidence relative to the characteristics, qualities, and behaviors required to lead effectively amid internal and external opposition. This is what makes a triumphant leader.

All successful leaders undoubtedly possess something distinctively individual about them, yet many of them share deeply established values that direct their actions. Integrity, compassion, honesty, and respect for others are the starting points of these principles, which serve as their framework. Triumphant leaders employ a definitive framework that you will see woven into the examples in the next two chapters. This framework bolstered by the pure guiding principles of triumphant leaders guide their work and maximize their effectiveness. One such framework is goal-setting and strategic planning. Triumphant leaders understand the importance of setting clear, specific, and achievable goals for their team or organization. They work collaboratively with their team to establish goals that align with the overall vision and mission. These goals serve as a roadmap, providing a sense of direction and purpose for the entire organization. Triumphant leaders also develop comprehensive strategic plans that outline the steps, resources, and timelines required to achieve those goals. This framework allows them to prioritize tasks, allocate resources effectively, and monitor progress, ensuring that the mission effectively serves those it is designed to touch.

Another framework employed by triumphant leaders is continuous improvement and learning. They recognize that complacency is the enemy of triumph and are committed to consistently enhancing their own skills and knowledge. Triumphant leaders encourage a culture of continuous learning and professional development within their team, providing opportunities for growth and skill-building. They actively seek feedback and evaluate their performance, using that information to refine their leadership approach. Additionally, they promote a mindset of innovation and experimentation, encouraging their team to explore new ideas and approaches. By fostering a culture of continuous improvement and learning, triumphant leaders create an environment that adapts to change, embraces new opportunities, and consistently achieves remarkable results.

Triumphant leadership also places a strong emphasis on effective implementation, communication, and collaboration. Triumphant leaders understand that a vision without execution is merely a dream. They are adept at converting their strategic plans into doable tasks, establishing precise objectives, and giving the tools and assistance that their team needs to achieve. They ensure that everyone understands their duties and responsibilities by clearly communicating expectations. Priority is placed on open and honest communication, which enables the sharing of concepts, opinions, and helpful criticism. Triumphant leaders empower team members to share their special talents and ideas in a collaborative environment that values different points of view. Triumphant leaders maximize the strengths and collective intelligence of their team by fostering excellent teamwork and collaboration, producing outstanding results.

Examining the triumphant leadership styles of Yeshua the Christ, Paul the Apostle, Queen Esther of Persia, Nehemiah, Nelson Mandela, Mother Teresa of Calcutta; Wangari Maathai, Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune, John Willard Marriott, Jr., Janice Bryant Howroyd, Cheryl Bachelder, and Herb Kelleher, a prevailing framework was revealed. This framework steeped deeply in the work of each person listed should be the cornerstone teaching for rising leaders of varying kinds today. The framework that we will begin to explore with four of the world’s legendary Biblical exemplars of triumphant leadership comprises five key things (some noted already): introduce, inspire, instill, implement, and integrate. Whether corporate or ministry, traditional or corporate, this five-point framework should be considered heavily as the outline for vision, strategy, and operations administration.

Chapter 2

Legendary Biblical Exemplars of Triumphant Leadership

Abstract

The leadership practices of triumphant Biblical leaders recorded in sacred Scriptures are essential and inspiring sources of influence for modern-day leadership development and growth. To begin, Yeshua the Christ, also known as Jesus, is the world’s most renowned triumphant Biblical leader. His leadership’s influence has transformed humankind’s history and destiny throughout the ages to present-day leadership internationally. Thus, we begin this study by analyzing Yeshua’s triumphant leadership. In addition, Paul the Apostle, formerly known as Paul of Tarsus, was a trailblazer in expanding the gospel of Christ during ancient Biblical times. Despite enduring extreme leadership challenges, he achieved his mission. Paul successfully transformed the movement of Christ from a minor messianic brand of Judaism into a message with universal appeal.¹

Similarly, the Book of Esther has much to teach us about triumphant leadership. Queen Esther effectively dealt with and overcame leadership challenges. Although she was not considered a leader at the time of her voluntary administration, Queen Esther seized the moment and exhibited effective leadership. The administration of Nehemiah, the final legendary Biblical leader, also offers essential characteristics of triumphant leadership. For instance, Nehemiah incorporated an effective strategy to counter opposition, restoring the quality of life for thousands of poor Jews. Gleaning from the effective administration of this collection of legendary Biblical leaders, twenty-first century leaders can learn vital characteristics of triumphant leadership.

Kyle D. Fedler, Exploring Christian Ethics: Biblical Foundations for Morality (Louisville, KY: Westminister John Knox Press, 2006), 190.

Yeshua the Christ

It is finished. —Yeshua the Christ

The dramatic depiction of Yeshua given to us in the New Testament epistles lends valuable, enduring leadership lessons relative to how to lead effectively amid troubling societal realities. Nothing was usual about Yeshua’s conception,² birth,³ leadership,⁴ death,⁵ or triumphant resurrection.⁶ Neither was His recruitment approach⁷ or leadership development strategies, which entailed ongoing use of thought-provoking parables,⁸ and not conforming to the status quo. Throughout Yeshua’s leadership, the people of the day endured significant marginalization, poverty, famine, and poor health conditions. They were under constant threat of Roman conquerors, who at any given moment had the power to besiege them.⁹ Equally challenging and diminutive, more than twenty-six percent of children lived past the age of one. Fifty percent lived past ten years old, and the life expectancy was approximately thirty.¹⁰ The Greco-Roman culture in which they existed exerted extreme social and political tension on Yeshua and His followers.¹¹ Nevertheless, Yeshua offered a redemptive opportunity to the Biblical audience. In contrast to the Roman leaders, no greater love for one’s friends existed before His leadership.¹² Yeshua’s mission was not to save the righteous,¹³ but the lost sheep of the house of Israel,¹⁴ and to call sinners to repentance,¹⁵ including the following people:

disenfranchised groups who were poverty-stricken and lacked support from loved ones, such as groups of people referenced in Matthew 19:21;

disenfranchised groups of people who were communally displaced, such as divorced women who were abandoned by their husbands as recorded in Matthew 19:9 and orphans referenced in Matthew