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Adding to this complexity, society increasingly looks to corporations to address pressing global issues—climate change, inequality, and social justice—placing additional pressure on CEOs to act ethically and responsibly. As public expectations rise, the leader’s job transcends traditional business metrics, venturing into the realm of societal accountability.
Leadership as a Series of Paradoxes
Bryant emphasizes that modern leadership, especially at the CEO level, is filled with paradoxes. Successful CEOs must walk a tightrope between opposing qualities: they need to be human and authentic while maintaining accountability; they must create urgency without rushing; foster inclusivity yet stand firm on core principles. Mastering these contradictions requires a nuanced sense of balance.