Leaders at their BEST
Servant Leadership has become a buzz word in recent years not only in religious organizations, but also in the business world. The word leadership has that much more punch when linked with “servant.” In gist, a servant leader is focused on serving the world around them. They are prodded to love and help, bringing meaning and satisfaction to others.
Catch the picture that James Autry gives, from his book The Servant-Leader:
1.) Leadership is not about controlling people; it’s about caring for people and being a useful resource for people.
2.) Leadership is not about being boss; it’s about being present for people and building a community at work.
3.) Leadership is not about holding on to territory; it’s about letting go of ego, bringing your spirit to work, being your best and most authentic self.
4.) Leadership is less concerned with pep talks and more concerned with creating a place in which people can do good work, can find meaning in their work, and can bring their spirits to work.
5.) Leadership, like life, is largely a matter of paying attention.
6.) Leadership requires love.
How is your SERVE these days?
March 8th, 2009 at 9:46 pm
I like the post. How very true! Can’t be a good leader unless one is also a good servant (a follower in other terms). “Leaders” that don’t get this are more likely dictators than true leaders.
Like your passion for the topic of leadership.
March 9th, 2009 at 1:21 pm
Larry:
So true…
In fact, years ago I heard a well respected leader say, regarding this notion of “servant” leadership and being in charge. He said, “The greatest test of your leadership is not how well you lead when you are in charge, but how well you ’serve’ when you are not in charge.”