Distinction Quote by John Adair
““There is a useful distinction between good leaders and leaders of good””
About This Quote
Source Book: The John Adair Handbook of Management and Leadership, 1999
Good leaders focus on achieving results, while leaders of good prioritize moral purpose and societal impact.
In simple terms: Leaders differ in focus on outcomes vs. values.
Balance results with ethical purpose.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- Corporate strategy
- non‑profit management
- public policy
- community projects
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you integrate purpose into performance metrics?
- What trade‑offs arise when profit and principle clash?
Good leaders may neglect ethical considerations; leaders of good may lack efficiency.