As we celebrate MLK day here in the US, let me ask you this question: What leadership attributes he would have incorporated to his arsenal if he is still alive in the 21st C?

MLK is a household name around the world. He was one of the greatest leaders of the 20th C. We all admire his extraordinary leadership qualities.

He was clear about his mission in life. Not only he had clarity about his purpose, but he was also ready to die for it. That was why he said, “If a man has not discovered something that he will die for, he isn’t fit to live.” He was also persistent. Regardless of so many challenges and setbacks he was facing, he kept going forward. I like what he said in this regard: “If you can’t fly then run, if you can’t run then walk, if you can’t walk then crawl, but whatever you do you have to keep moving forward.”

His infamous ‘I’ve a dream’ speech displayed in full view his ability to envision deep into the future. As we all have seen thus far, his vision came to pass, at least, the most part. MLK also demonstrated a sense of urgency by making his cause his top priority. He frequently used the phrase ‘The fierce urgency of now’ in his speeches. For instance, once he said: “We are now faced with the fact that tomorrow is today. We are confronted with the fierce urgency of now … This is no time for apathy or complacency. This is a time for vigorous and positive action.”

Well, he had many other off the charts leadership qualities such as his extraordinary communication ability plus his solid character.

Let me ask you again: If MLK is still alive in the 21st C, what additional leadership qualities would he have added on top of the great leadership attributes he already had?

In my upcoming presentation at a conference organized by Jantilla on February 2nd, I will talk about “Leadership in the 21st C”. On top of answering some other important questions, I’ll share some of the key leadership qualities necessary to succeed in the 21st C. I hope to see you there and hear your answer to the above question.