Reflections

I feel like I learned a lot about management throughout the last few chapters we covered, but especially in Chapter 8 when we covered the different styles of leadership. It's interesting how we have to adapt to each individual situation in order to decide which "leadership style" is best in a particular case. I think the most challenging part of being a leader is dealing with the unusual and unpredictable situations that arise. You have to decide for yourself--am I going to be a heroic leader, or a developmental leader? a transactional leader, or a transformational leader? etc.
I also think, after studying this chapter, there is a thick line between a manager and a leader. For example, in my opinion a transactional leader hardly stands up against a transformational leader. A transformational leader wants to build up his followers, while a transactional leader likes things they way they are and wants everyone to maintain their level of skill and knowledge. However, I realize that sometimes a transactional manager would be best for certain situations. Everything about leadership depends on the situation involved, and I find this to be the most challenging and interesting aspect of leadership itself.