Advancing a positive leadership orientation: from problem to possibility.

the need for effective and innovative leadership in our healthcare system is unprecedented and fuelled by the pressures for change in light of the current economic downturn, a large aging population, imminent retirements of current leaders, decreasing interest in formal management roles, stressful work environments, and patient safety concerns. A significant body of knowledge has been generated around leadership, job satisfaction and retention practices that can promote healthier work environments. However, there is a gap in the application of the best leadership practices to create the sustainable changes our system requires.