The understanding of leadership has changed from being directive towards a people-centred and future-responsive style. Alongside this has been the growing awareness of the impact of emotional intelligence and its centrality in defining exemplary leadership.

There is also a growing recognition of the intense toll on individuals who step up to lead groups within organisations and to lead the organisations themselves. This situation is being exacerbated by the imminent shortage of senior leaders within schools. This is in part due to the aging population of school leaders. It is also because many potential leaders are wary of taking on such demanding and potentially damaging roles. 

The Constant Leader explores the relationship between emotional intelligence and high performing leaders. Uniquely it identifies the impact of stress on decision-making. Most importantly it advocates strategies for retaining personal health whilst performing at a high level and in particular enhancing creativity.