In a sea of leadership guides, Rajeev Peshawaria’s perspective shines brightly as the author of “TOO MANY BOSSES, TOO FEW LEADERS: The Three Essential Principles You Need to Be an Extraordinary Leader.” In this book, Peshawaria brings over insights into what it truly takes to become an extraordinary leader. Drawing inspiration from Peshawaria’s wisdom, this article will explore the characters that set a leader apart from just being a boss.

There are too many bosses, but too few leaders around. The distinction between the two is simple – leaders are driven by a commitment to enhance employee engagement, while bosses often prioritize the privileges tied to their position. Though most organizations offer leadership training, it tends to follow a formulaic structure, relying on competency models and copy-cat role plays.

Extraordinary leader has limitless energy

Limitless energy in a leader first comes from clarity of purpose. Picture it as having a map that guides your journey. When you’re aware of your destination, feel energized and walk at a brisk pace. On the other hand, lacking a clear goal is like wandering aimlessly, causing you to move slowly and merely react to whatever comes your way.

The second source of limitless energy is clarity of one’s own values. When there are no immediate solutions, values instruct people on what to do and how to act. Leaders set an example with their own behavior in order to influence others.

Gandhi never held a political or military position, and he had no formal authority or title. Still, he accomplished the extraordinary feat of leading millions and fighting the world’s greatest power without resorting to violence. What’s truly remarkable is that people willingly laid down their lives for him because he lived the values he espoused – humility, truth, and non-violence.

Extraordinary leader creates a better future

True leaders first envision a better future, and strive hard for as long as it takes to create it. However, it’s like trying to convince others to change their routines, The challenge is that many people might push back or resist the idea. To stay the course, you need limitless energy.

Consider the story of Ratan Tata, a visionary leader. On a rainy day in Bangalore, he witnessed a family of four spill onto the road, all dangerously piled atop a tiny scooter. Shocked by the accident, he then asked himself: How can we make commuting safer for Indian families? This question sparked the idea of a “Peoples Car.” Despite skepticism, criticism, and mockery from competitors, he pressed forward with limitless determination. Finally, in 2008, Tata Motors achieved a historic milestone, introducing the world to the Nano, the most affordable car ever created.

The daily reality of India’s unsafe roads is visible to everyone. Nevertheless, it takes a true leader like Tata to first envision a better future, and then find the limitless energy to create it.

Instead of focusing on increasing their own power, or achieving great results themselves, extraordinary leaders make it their full-time job to facilitate the success of others.

In “Good To Great,” Jim Collins explains that some of the most exceptional business leaders aren’t well-known in business history because they did not build their personal fame. Instead, they chose to work alongside capable co-leaders and put in a relentless effort to support their teams and create great organizations.

Final thoughts

At the end of the day, leadership is the art of harnessing human energy toward the creation of a better future. While leaders must energize teams and organizations, genuine leadership begins with oneself. Discovering your own source of energy is a long journey – you can start by asking yourself a few questions.

1. What few things are most important to me?
2. What kind of life do I want to live? A simple one, rich with everyday pleasures? Achieve great personal success? Lead others toward a better future?
3. What results do I want to bring about?
4. How do I want people to experience me?
5. What values will guide my behaviour?
6. What situations cause me to feel strong emotions?

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