Taking the lead : the leadership pillar in action

Abstract

While leadership is a core pillar of advanced practice, it can be difficult for clinicians to identify in their own practice. In health and social care, the challenge is for practitioners to translate this pillar into practice and unlock their full potential as leaders. For leadership to flourish in advanced practice, it is essential to increase its recognition from the perspective of the individual and throughout an organisation. This article aims to challenge conventional notions of leadership by exploring the who, what and why in ‘taking the lead’, and offering a practical perspective for individual application. It recognises the unique challenges faced in health and social care settings, and emphasises the importance of candour and open dialogue as a means to embody leadership. Clinicians are encouraged to identify and cultivate their leadership skills through introspection and practical implementation. Advanced practice, synonymous with change, provides a network of emerging leaders capable of driving change through diverse and innovative approaches. Embracing the opportunities of advanced practice requires a movement to challenge traditional leadership paradigms, necessitating vision and compassion