Editorial - Leadership when there are no easy answers: applying leader moral courage to wicked problems

Abstract

Conventionally the ability to solve problems and provide guidance during difficult times is considered a central role of leaders. Nursing as a profession exists in a context of almost continual change and transition and is charged with ethical oversight of, and leading improvements in care quality and the patient experience (Phillips & Byrne 2013). It has long been held that in challenging times and when crises present, effective leaders are solution focused, take command and reduce uncertainty through decisive action. In contrast with this view of leadership, leaders often find themselves faced with darker or intractable problems for which there are no clear solutions, or no distinct point at which the problem can be resolved.