John F. Kennedy

Whether in business, politics, or the community, today's leaders have more in common with their legendary ancestors than they may realize. Intensely scrutinized by their constituents, colleagues, the media, and the public, leaders make decisions that affect lives far beyond their immediate surroundings. Perhaps no figure in recent memory more fully personifies leadership than President John F. Kennedy.

When we think of a leader we naturally consider John F. Kennedy. Kenney led with a democratic leadership style. Leaders act a s collectors of group opinion and take vote before deciding when a democratic leadership style is put in place. "A leadership style is a relatively consistent pattern of behavior that characterizes a leader, perceived by those whom you are trying to influence, which involves problem-solving and decision-making processes." By leading democratically, he amost never made a decision without everyones' approval.

John F. Kennedy demonstrated leadership behaviors. He possessed consideration. Consideration is when the leader creates an environment of emotional support, warmth, friendliness, and trust. This can also be recognized as relationship oriented behavior. Relationship oriented behavior is most often defined as a servant leader serves constituents by working on their behalf to help them achieve their goals, not the leader's own goals. For an example Kennedy led the nation through the Cuban missile crisis, and horrific event in history. In addition Kennedy led America through the unstable civil rights movement. Besides creating an environment of comfort for the citizens of America. He was preceived as trustworthy and competent. He brought the United States into a new era making it almost impossible to dislike the reigning president. "He took hold of America's goals and did not let go until they were brought to success" (Kennedy 3).

Leadership by definition is someone who makes a difference and facilitates positive change. Kennedy was a charismatic and visionary leader. He had a vision of what people could accomplish for their country. The vision was aggressive and had enduring force. Kennedy "led citizens nationwide to not only embrace his vision of America, but work to make it a reality" (Barnes 1). Through a combination of action and superior communication skills, Kennedy turned himself into that rarest of leaders, one who was able to personify his vision.

"John F. Kennedy had to conquer the eleventh district, handshake by handshake" (Schoenberg 2). While running for Senate, he crammed his schedule with events, sponsored neighborhood house parties, and enlisted his mother and sisters to host "teas" for female voters many of whom were recruited as volunteers. Kennedy had to personify self-confidence to gain confidence of the people. Kennedy exhumed self-confidence, humility, enthusiasm, assertiveness, and warmth. He possessed many of the general personality traits of a leader. Kennedy was not cocky; he never took anything for granted. He traveled the state, never taking a single vote for granted and never letting his problematic