“A leader is best when people barely know he exists, when his work is done, his aim fulfilled, they will say: we did it ourselves.” ~Lao Tzu
These words spoken by the 6th Century Chinese Philosopher Lao Tzu, really captures the heart of leadership for me.
Unlike many of the current leaders of today who yearn for a few minutes in the spotlight, dole out dollars to buy votes, or lay down at the feet of lobbyist so they can be re-elected. All the while, professing they are doing what is right for the people they lead.
If one seeks the truth, I believe we can find it in the words of the people they lead.
What Do Your People Say?
I believe Lao Tzu’s words speaks loudly to the difference between self-centered leaders and extraordinary leaders. To me the difference is quite clear, and I believe it is more clear in the minds of the people they lead.
My interpretation of these words are as follows: When a self-centered leader is present, their people say “Look at what our leader has done!” When an extraordinary leader is present, their people say “Look at what we have accomplished!”
So as a leader, I think you must ask yourself this question: What do my people say about me? or maybe a little closer to home is, “What do my people say about me when I am not there?”
If you want truly to be an extraordinary leader, the following 5 thoughts might help you get there. But only if you act upon them.
5 Things Extraordinary Leaders Know:
- Their job is to teach and develop, not to do.
- They must hold themselves and their people accountable all of the time, not just some of the time.
- They are responsible to their people, not responsible for their people.
- That they never do for their people that which they can do for themselves – and they can do most things for themselves, if you let them.
- Their goal is to help their people find the answers inside of themselves and not for the leader to solve all of their people’s problems.
So let me close with one last question:
If you’re going to be a leader, why not be an Extraordinary one?
