Book excerpt: An essential guide to the elements that create strong leadership. From those decisive moments in which a difficult decision must be made, to the unguarded moments when our emotional, authentic selves manifest themselves for better or worse – this book explores the actions and outlooks that define leadership. The Intentional Leader clarifies that openness is key to genuinely effective leadership – as Emerson wrote, “The reason why the world lacks unity, and lies broken and in heaps, is because man is disunited with himself.” We have an overabundance of 'leaders' in our world today. But those who truly stand out are the ones who lead in a way that inspires employees to rally behind the organizational cause – whether that be developing cutting-edge technologies or selling fast food. This is Intentional Leadership, which Tim Hebert defines as clear, aligned, compassionate guidance delivered with a strong core ideology. It's responsive, not reactionary. It's inclusive, not prejudiced. It's transformational, not transactional. It's innovative, daring and inspirational leadership. Drawing upon his extensive experience as a business leader and consultant, Tim Hebert provides practical advice and broadly applicable guidance that will bolster business leaders across all industries. With an engaging combination of high-profile case studies, first-hand experiences and enlightening research, The Intentional Leader is the essential guide to cultivating an authentic, effective and sustainable approach to leadership.