I think it is an assumption that many work with, and we are all the poorer for it. Ironically, quiet leaders often make fantastic associates to more charismatic leaders. They work away in the background getting important things into place, while the more charismatic leader fronts up to the crowd. When both have a real respect for each other and the importance of what each is doing, it is a powerful combination.

One thing I argue in the book is that we need to think of leaderships (plural), rather than leadership (singular). Settings where different leadership styles can flourish can be very rich places. I am really sad that your setting didn’t allow for this, and hope that after some of the hurt of that settles, that you will be able to find a place where you will be able to serve and where your gifting will be valued.