The blog challenges the conventional markers of leadership success—Power, Title, and Money (PTM). It cautions that measuring oneself by these standards can produce what it calls “Bonsai Leaders”: individuals who appear impressive but lack depth, resilience, and lasting influence. Inspired by Dr. R. Gopalakrishnan’s The Bonsai Manager, it draws a parallel to bonsai trees—beautifully maintained yet fruitless, incapable of offering real value.
True success, the author suggests, comes from an entirely different path. It is built on continuous learning, sharpening one’s craft, developing a meaningful voice within the organization, embracing challenges, and making contributions that genuinely matter. Whether through better systems, smarter processes, or innovative ideas, these efforts generate value that endures—far beyond what traditional corporate scoreboards capture.
Quoting Dr. Marla Gottschalk, the piece emphasizes that leadership growth occurs when roles stretch our capabilities while enriching both the organization and our personal practice. The perspective of badminton champion Kidambi Srikanth reinforces this notion: real success lies in growth and the joy of the journey, not in applause or titles. Without this mindset, leaders risk becoming admired yet hollow—like bonsais, celebrated for their form but lacking true substance.
Read more:- https://growthsqapes.com/the-t....rue-measure-of-your-
