LEADERSHIP, SERVANT LEADERSHIP AND FUNDAMENTAL STATE OF LEADERSHIP AND COMPONENTS OF FOLLOWERS’ PSYCHOLOGICAL WELL-BEING

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of the paper is to propose the framework of effects of various aspects of positive leadership on components of long-term well-being.

Methodology/approach

The paper is conceptual in nature. I use the established frameworks considered as related to positive leadership and assess the effect of each of their dimensions on components of followers’ psychological well-being.

Findings

There are complex relationships between aspects of positive leadership: transformational leadership, authentic leadership, servant leadership and fundamental state of leadership and components of followers’ psychological well-being (self-acceptance, autonomy, positive relationships with others, environmental mastery, purpose in life, personal growth). For instance intellectual stimulation, conceptual skills, helping subordinates grow and results orientation of the leader contribute to personal growth of the follower.

Implications/limitations either for further research, for practice, or for society

The study brings some practical recommendations for leaders on how to support psychological well-being of the followers. It is critical that leaders recognize strong and weak components of well-being of their followers and support them. This, in turn, will have positive effect on employee’s performance according to happy-productive principle.

Originality/value of the paper

The paper contributes to the literature in leadership and well-being in a couple of ways. It contributes to the growing literature of positive leadership by considering previously ignored effect of long-term well-being of followers, it contributes more generally to the literature of leadership by showing the possible advantage of positive style of leadership, and adds to the discussion on well-being by suggesting how it might contribute from certain behaviors of the leader.