The Wizard of Leadership 

by Coach Frank Sagasta August 29th, 2024 

Have you ever watched a film that reflected back to a concept you wish you knew more of today? 

I am truly confident that most of you, grew up watching one of America’s favorite films; “The Wizard of Oz.”  I know for certain that we still watch this film during the holidays.  In fact, I have incredible memories of being glued to the television, acting like it was the first time we had ever watched a movie as a kid and as a parent.  All my kid grow up watching this film and own their own copy.  Why?  Because it is a classic with deeper meaning and a concept (Leadership) that I am truly passionate about today.    

In fact, this film was so meaningful that Hollywood has made four or five different styles of the film.  As an adult, parent, and professional.  I see that the film (The Wizard of Oz) sends a vivid message of what it takes to be an effective, authentic, and quality leader in all areas of the marketplace.  

How?  

Well, let's ALL observe two of the first characters within the film.  Dorothy and The Scarecrow.

Dorothy

Dorothy a beautiful young lady who was obviously unhappy with life, she told us in great detail that she wanted to escape this life because a mean person wanted to end her dog's (Toto's) life, and no one would listen to her side of the story.  Dorothy goes on to teach us about vision playing a huge role in our dreams.  She goes into detail about a place far away from the farm.  About a place beyond this reality.  I am sure many of you remember the jingle or song “Over the Rainbow.”  She goes into details describing this magical place with rainbows, bluebirds, and lemon drops.  She painted a picture in our minds of a place like many other children would, using their imagination, she believed that anything is possible, and dreams really do come true.  

As many you might know, Dorothy continues the journey and along this same yellow brick road, she quickly befriends (Interpersonal Skill) the Scarecrow, who has a deep-seated belief that- not only does he not have a brain, but he is unable to think for himself.  And yet, throughout the whole film.  He does much of the thinking.  Towards the end of The Wizard of Oz, Dorothy says her goodbye to her friends, but when she gets to the Scarecrow, she embraces him and cries.  In fact, if you listen closely, you hear Dorothy say; “I think I'll miss you most of all."  

I envy that ability to dream big, to see the unimaginable, and to work for it.  It's something that I have learned to practice and bring back into my psyche for ten years.  It's heartbreaking when all too often we cross paths with people who have lost this sense of wonderment and imagination as we age, or we lose focus because of all the distractions in life.  

Dorothy in The Wizard of Oz is a true visionary.  In addition, to being a visionary.  Dorothy shares her natural ability to be self-driven, influential, and a team builder.  She displays reliance, determination, uncommon grit, and a positive mental attitude by keeping an open mind.  She kept those traits all while pushing through those most challenging circumstances or situations.  She also displayed a strong sense of compassion and empathy for those around her which is what “ALL” great leaders have shared over time.  These qualities guide behavior and actions which allows them all to persist.

Leaders like Dorothy naturally look for ways around any obstacles that come their way.  Leaders like Dorothy look for answers to complex issues, we call them engineered solution solvers.  They value having a team of people who are motivated, passionate, and talented. 

The Scarecrow 

Why would Dorothy miss the Scarecrow most of all? 

This is my professional observation.  I believe Dorothy understood the tremendous sacrifices and willingness Scarecrow offered her.  Scarecrow made it his business to leave his home, follow her, and protect her on this journey.  This individual had apples thrown at him by the apple trees, dismembered and unstuffed by flying monkeys, and last was set on fire by the Wicked Witch of the West.  Yet, Scarecrow's tenacious and ambitious will to serve Dorothy overcame the powerful force of fear.  The Scarecrow truly had the heart of a leader, one that Tin Man unfortunately lacked, and the courage that unfortunately the Cowardly-Lion lacked.  

Why? 

The Scarecrow had a business mindset, a positive mental attitude, and a laser focus which is the foundation of all influential leaders.  It is WHY.  It is the WORK.  And the WHO that truly matters.  It takes one to learn from mistakes and change course when necessary, or to stay the course when necessary.  It also takes this unwavering commitment of consistency to develop (Kaizen) your skills and to share them with your team or those you care for around you.   

Dorothy takes the initiative to explore the opportunity of getting home which took a huge amount of courage and throughout her journey, Dorothy exemplifies the qualities of a true leader.  The Scarecrow's growth in understanding and wisdom is obvious while still believing he lacked intelligence, the Scarecrow evolves into a thoughtful leader during the group's journey.  By the end of the film, he realizes that true wisdom comes from his experiences, illustrating how leadership can develop through self-discovery, self-education, teamwork, and expertise.  In the end, Dorothy and the Scarecrow discover they already have everything they are searching for within themselves.  Dorothy learned it was easier to accomplish her goals by building a team of various talents, abilities, and personalities.  She leveraged her team's skills, and gifts, and encouraged them to believe in themselves, allowing them to develop their natural talents.  

Do you have a favorite movie that's helped you succeed?  What life lessons have you learned?

With Gratitude








Coach Frank Sagasta
Leadership & Life-Skills Specialist

H.O.P.E LLC,