The Cardinal Sins of Leadership
Abstract
This paper explores leader behavior through the lens of two frameworks: the concept of “cardinal” or “deadly sins” found in Christianity and the Actualized Leadership Framework (ALF) that examines leaders’ motivation and their corresponding “Leadership Shadows.” After examining the two foundational sins potentially affecting all leaders in applied settings, pride and greed, the paper then correlates a unique cardinal sin to each leader style: Achiever (Vanity), Affirmer (Envy) and Asserter (Lust). The faith-based implications are explored, as well as an approach for integrating the specific Leadership Shadows to lead in a more self-aware, and self-actualized, way.