Passion and Discipline: Don Quixote's Lessons for Leadership

Think Don Quixote was just a funny looking guy in the stage and screen versions of Cervantes' classic comic novel? James March wants you to think again. A teacher at Stanford University's School of Business, March would have the viewer believe that the man of La Mancha has valuable leadership lessons for today's business managers. Drawing from the worlds of business, politics, and literature, March describes Quixote's journey as a lifelong quest for knowledge, an eternal struggle between idealism and pragmatism, and a burning--even absurd--belief that life should be challenged in a passionate yet disciplined manner (remember how the errant knight used to tilt at windmills?). Some examples cited here make sense, such as Martin Luther King's "I Have a Dream" speech, Bill Gates' transforming technological vision, and Joan of Arc's heroism (illustrated here with the 1957 Otto Preminger turkey Saint Joan). Unfortunately, too many examples--such as the 1986 French film Betty Blue--seem strained, and may have business leaders scratching their heads. Ultimately, the program celebrates the role of imagination and vision, underscores the need for commitment and joyful work, and recognizes failure as a necessary detour on the road to ultimate success, reminding viewers that humor and a strong self-image will sustain the leader over life's bumpy road. Although featuring some farfetched examples and running a bit long, this offbeat video remains a strong optional purchase. Aud: C, P. (S. Rees)