Understanding Theory: LOST

LOST is one of the best television series of all time. Every drama-filled episode leaves you excited and wanting more. I absolutely love the character development throughout the seasons, and each character has his/her own unique leadership style that can be learned from.

One of the people who have a very task-oriented leadership style is Sawyer. He initiates plans and doesn’t really care to listen to anyone else’s opinion; he wants to get the job done and will manipulate people to make sure things are done his way (authoritarian focused with high control). On the other hand, Jack leads with a more people oriented method – he listens to his people and encourages them to do the right thing by sticking with him through obstacles (participative leadership style).

John Locke assumes Theory Y because he although he is misunderstood, he still believes in the good of people and that there is a leader inside of everyone. Theory X leadership is displayed through Sawyer because he believes that his “followers” are not responsible enough to make their own decisions and therefore micromanages others to where many people lack his trust in return and are not amicable with him.

There are so many different characters in LOST, all with different leadership strategies. Although leadership behaviors can be situational, by watching the show, you can see what works in leading others in certain situations, or what causes the leader to crash and burn. I highly recommend watching the series if you are looking for a thrill seeking show with diverse yet strong-willed characters who all teach important leadership lessons.