Don't be too timid and squeamish about your actions. All life is an experiment. The more experiments you make the better. - Ralph Waldo Emerson.
Thought leadership has been unfamiliar to many until just recently, particularly nurses and public health scholars. The idea of intellectual thinking has historically been reserved for members of political, religious and business cabinets.
Ralph Waldo Emerson, poet, abolitionist, lecturer and philosopher, was known for his experiments in diverse thought and leadership. His essay Nature, laid the foundation for transcendentalism and his literary career. In addition, it has been a staple in developing certain ideas such as individuality, freedom, and the ability for mankind to realize almost anything.
Research has shown that examination groups, think tanks and meetings can be instrumental in the thought process of the emerging leader. As the nursing profession struggles to recruit and retain, provocative thought, morality and uncharted paths are key strategies for professional development.
As leader it is important to covet as many different conversations, and experiences as possible. Sometimes finding the answers to challenging issues can come from the experience of another.