Taking a Leaf from William Cox

In their report, The Next Generation Leaders: competency deficits and the bridge to success, Judy Chartrand and Bonnie Hagemann conclude that the fundamental gaps in future leadership are: critical thinking skills and an ability to motivate and influence others. Moreover, they found that the "real issue is that we can't find enough people PREPARED to fill the seats". It prompts me to ask why not? 

Perhaps it is because we are in an age of great uncertainty that require these competencies be infused with a courageous quality.

I am reminded of William Cox, an extraordinary engineer who in 1814 pulled together a team of 30 convicts and 8 guards to build a road across the Blue Mountains and access fertile lands beyond. In so doing, Cox and his men enabled the expansion of the colony of New South Wales and so began the process of nation building. His was a story of endurance with his men and solving seemingly insurmountable difficulties together; and it is one that heartens me immensely because he was an authentic leader. 

For my part, the relationship with Gen Y leaders meant that together we engaged in critical thinking, cut through mind boggling complexity and motivated others through veils of fear. 

So why as a culture, do we have a need to turn our leaders into what Johann Hari calls "cuddly eunuchs", devoid of human failings? What scope is there today for a William Cox to emerge? How is it possible to motivate and inspire any other way?

Maybe the first step is for incumbent leaders to let go of their certainties, relinquish the security blanket of 'expert' and allow critical thinking to occur, from whatever quarter.

If not, how will we inspire anyone to step forward and "fill the seats"?