The character imperative: Creating a more just, prosperous, and sustainable future

Abstract

We believe that no level of competence or commitment will matter without the foundational leadership element of strong, well-developed character. Our conversations with global leaders reinforced our conviction that character development must be included in leadership conversations and development if we are going to help create leaders who are willing and able to tackle the grand challenges of our time and work towards a more prosperous, just, and inclusive society. The ultimate objective our paper is to encourage the reader to consider how each of us can raise the bar in our respective selves, teams, organizations, and communities by recognizing, measuring, fostering, and being leaders with good character. In short, we hope the reader comes to appreciate that character is not a niche topic or a nice-to-have. Simply put, character is utterly essential to good leadership and to individual and societal well-being.