The Realist

realist [ˈrɪəlɪst]n

1. a person who is aware of and accepts the physical universe, events, etc., as they are; pragmatist

2. (Fine Arts & Visual Arts / Art Terms) (Literary & Literary Critical Terms) an artist or writer who seeks to represent the familiar or typical in real life rather than an idealized, formalized, or romantic interpretation

A wide audience will accept that a successful leader is most likely a realist. He is the one who gauges the situation correctly, thinks of the larger and longer benefits and acts with utmost reasoning without letting emotions affect the way of working, be it his or her own or of any other teammate. However, to rubbish other schools of thought like idealism and romanticism would not be a wise thing to do. On the contrary, it might possibly be the worst thing a leader could do.

For one let me ask you, why is the portrayal of a hero always an all encompassing figure, that supreme one who saves the day? Isn't it an idealistic and romantic tendency? And why should we narrow our views to movies when all successful historical figures are portrayed as the giants who rise at the critical moment to save the situation. And finally, one of the most cherished belief, of that of God is an idealistic and romantic portrayal. The question then is that why should a realist not reject these other schools. The reason is clear and mentioned right above.

A successful leader should not only be able to lead his mates, but also inspire them.  He must keep in mind that the goal is above everything, including his own egos. Thus, while setting the goals he must act like a realist, but when assigning the tasks to his peers, he must be surely act like an idealist and probably a romantic. His optimism should be so overwhelming that the workforce is inspired by the sheer confidence that he vests in them