“Leadership is Doing” by Pamela J. Newman

Leadership is Doing

Pamela J. Newman
Outskirts Press (2020)
ISBN: 9781977229694
Reviewed by Tammy Ruggles for Reader Views (1/2021)

“Leadership is Doing” by Pamela J. Newman, is a tidy little book that will inspire both upcoming and established leaders alike. Newman uses vignettes to illustrate a number of axioms in an informative and encouraging way. It’s ideal for those in the private, public, profit, or non-profit sectors. Actually, this book would be good for anyone looking to improve leadership skills, from community leaders, to church leaders, or those trying to make a difference and lead the way to improvement and results. It’s a real boost to the efforts put forth by those in a position to better others, and themselves. Teachers, entrepreneurs, volunteers, counselors–almost anyone will come away with a better skillset and a motivation to be a more effective leader.

I like the simple message the author puts forth, which the title sums up nicely: Leadership is doing. It’s one thing to delegate, have people doing what you ask, giving directives, expressing your ideas from a distance. It’s another–and better thing–to lead by example. To dig in and do the thing you’re asking of others. There’s an old saying that says you shouldn’t ask someone to do something you wouldn’t do yourself, and that could go for leadership too. Doing is acting. It’s carrying out choices, decisions, and ideas. For example, if you want to lead a community group in cleaning up the neighborhood, it might be best to get in there and get your hands dirty too.

The techniques Newman offers are easy and practical, and that’s what leaders need in today’s hectic-paced world–strategies to use now, that really work. In the face of COVID-19, leadership is of utmost importance, to improve economics, society, and the state of our collective mental health. I like how the author shows the different kinds of leaders, some we may not think about, like parents, employees, and coworkers.

Not only is this book perfect for those seeking to improve their leadership skills, it’s a great gift to give to others who may also benefit. Some of the valuable themes include Visualizing the Outcome, Standing up for What is Correct, and more. Leaders help, leaders respect others. It’s lessons like these that make this book a timeless asset. “Leadership is Doing” by Pamela J. Newman, is a small but impactful volume you can return to again and again for inspiration and wisdom in leadership.