Cultivating Leadership: The Need for Renovating Models to Higher Epistemic Cognition

Abstract

More than ever before, people are reevaluating their lives and work as they search for deeper meaning. This “self-actualization” has only superficially appeared in leadership theory and research. This essay will discuss why adult development and higher levels of critical thinking in leadership is essential to effective leadership. The authors hypothesize that a “cultivated” aspect of leadership is currently lacking in leadership theory and research and is essential to leader and follower development. Additionally, the authors envision that impending organizations will necessitate more leaders with the ability to facilitate follower growth and development along these constructs.