There are no instant-hero formulas. Friend and Foe Fear and doubt are simultaneously a leader's two greatest allies and two greatest enemies. As an ally, fear provides self-awareness, a sense of urgency and information. Doubt, on the other hand, forms the core of scientific objectivity and learning. Yet in reality, both can be enemies.
Fear can infect quickly, paralyzing action and innovation.
A leader's success in cultivating courage and integrity is ultimately an exercise in balance. One defining challenge for me occurred while competing for my first executive position. I had made a proposal for a bold new direction that I felt the organization needed to take. One faction, led by the chief operating officer, was actively disdainful of my effort. The COO questioned the professionalism of my approach, cast doubt about its value and sowed fear throughout the organization about the risks of doing something so new.