Channeling Great Leaders
The question "What would a great leader do?" serves as a powerful decision-making framework that elevates thinking beyond immediate circumstances to a more principled leadership perspective.
The origin of the question "What would a great leader do?" is attributed to various leadership experts, but its power lies in its simplicity as a decision-making framework. This question gained prominence in leadership circles as organizations began focusing more on values-based and ethical leadership in the late 20th century. It serves as a mental model that forces leaders to step outside their immediate circumstances and view situations from a more elevated perspective, similar to how the business world adopted "What would you do if you weren't afraid?" as a catalyst for bold decision-making.
In practical application, you can implement this question in various scenarios: Before making a difficult personnel decision, pause and ask yourself "What would a great leader do?" When facing an ethical dilemma, use this question to guide your moral compass. In daily interactions with your team, consider how a great leader would handle conflict, deliver feedback, or celebrate successes. This question can serve as your north star in moments of uncertainty or pressure.
The Bible offers us similar guidance in Philippians 2:3-4 - "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others." This passage exemplifies the heart of great leadership - putting others first and leading with humility. It reminds us that great leadership isn't about personal gain but about serving and elevating others.
Start implementing this question into your daily leadership routine.
Consider the following questions:
What specific situation are you facing right now where you need greater clarity?
Who are the great leaders you admire, and how would they handle this situation?
What's holding you back from making the decision a great leader would make?
How can you build this question into your regular decision-making process?
What resources or support do you need to become the great leader you envision?
Take time today to identify one leadership challenge and apply this question. Schedule a coaching session to discuss how to develop your leadership decision-making framework.