ABRAHAM LINCOLN: A Transformational LeaderThroughout history, certain leaders have been considered admirable because of their positive influence on other individuals. For example, in my opinion, Abraham Lincoln was able to influence the masses because he chose to think and behave differently from other leaders before him. When a person is considered a leader, there are several responsibilities and qualities that will inspire others to follow the teachings demonstrated. Leadership can be described as the process of “guiding individuals, groups, and entire organizations in establishing goals and sustaining action to support the goals (Shockley-Zalabak, 2015, p. 220) . Additionally, each leader will generally have a distinctive style. With this particular style, leaders are known to have a hands-off approach when guiding others and generally do not provide the support that may be needed. Additionally, Laissez-fair leaders allow individuals to make their own decisions without much interference or feedback. In addition to the Laissez-fair leader, there is also the transformational leadership method. A transformational leader can be described as a person who “persuades subordinates to take ownership of the organizational revolution” (Rana, Malik, & Hussain, 2007, p. 163). Additionally, transformational leaders also formulate ambitious goals in order to pave the way for others. For example, although Abraham Lincoln was President of the United States, he volunteered for the Blackhawk War, which proves how caring and selfless he was. He was able to empathize and relate to others, even if it could be considered politically incorrect. The last leadership style mentioned is the so-called transactional style. With the transactional method of leading others, there is a “reciprocal exchange” (Rana, Malik, & Hussain, 2007, p. 164) that exists between a leader and his or her subordinates. Focusing on the desired outcome is the primary goal of transactional leaders rather than focusing on individuals. Authentic leadership “emphasizes a leader who imprints his or her personality of honesty and integrity in an organization” (Hegarty and Cusack, 2016, p. 68). He is a leader who focuses on building relationships through honesty and the contribution of others. After authentic leadership, others prefer to use servant leadership theory. Abraham Lincoln is an example of a servant leader. During his presidency, he contributed to the preservation of the Union but also to the liberation of slaves, which shows his desire to commit to the greater good of people (People's Forum, 2016). Servant theory “explores how a leader enables followers to be more effective by caring about their well-being” (Hegarty & Cusack, 2016, p. 68), which is what Abraham Lincoln represented. Following servant leadership theory is what is known as leader-member exchange (LMX). Leader-member exchange theory “suggests that leaders have limited time and resources and share their personal and position-related resources differently with their employees” (Shockley-Zalabak, 2015, p. 153). Additionally, LMX theory focuses on the leader and subordinates independently and usually the interaction differs from case to case.