Serena Williams Grand Slams An Apology
Posted: September 15, 2009, 08:36 AM by Leslie Grossman
If you are a tennis fan, you probably didn't miss the surprising scene on the courts of the US OPEN during the women's semi-finals. If you are not a fan, you missed seeing one of the world's greatest tennis players, Serena Williams yell at a lineswoman when she didn't agree with a call at a most critical moment. Serena didn't just yell, she volted electricity right through the TV screen. This morning, the sports page reported Serena's apology. This was good news for leadership. The fact that one of the greatest female athletes, a leader in the sports world, and certainly a role model to so many, could say "I'm sorry" is worthy of comment. I hope that her apology gets as much visibility as her anger. It's so important that we all realize that a true leader is willing to admit when she or he makes a mistake. Owning up to it does not make you less a leader. In fact, it shows great leadership. Leaders are passionate and sometimes intense. While most know they should pause and think, before saying something outrageous or inappropriate, once in a while emotion can take over. Apologizing isn't just for emotional outbursts, however. Leaders do make mistakes. An apology is a sign of strength and a willingness to say, "I was wrong" is never a sign of weakness. Bravo to Serena for her apology!
Reader Comments
Posted: September 22, 2009, 10:25 AM by Nancy P. Ottaviano
Well said. We all make mistakes And being able to apologize with sincerity is reflective of a person with a solid self esteem and character. Nancy P. Ottaviano, Winning Edge
Add Your Comment
