The barracuda is an ambush fish, capable of speeds of 25 mph and feared by all but killer whales and sharks. If confronted by one of those enemies and there is no place to hide, the barracuda simply attacks. Whether hunting or escaping, the barracuda is a formidable predator.

I find myself contemplating the barracuda’s traits when I consider much of the current discussion on leadership. Conversations that place great emphasis on the leader’s capacity to be values-driven, express humility, not take credit, and generally be—and be seen as—a really nice person. The irony of this in a time of brutal politics is that political correctness is valued above and beyond almost any other leader-like behavior. I value those traits as well—it’s a PC-centered world. Very little is heard of the importance of a leader’s determination, single mindedness, focus, ability to drive, super smarts, or savvy. No one denies the primacy of these, the business end of a leader’s work, but no one is talking about them.

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