Servant Leadership
True leadership is fundamentally rooted in a heart of service, as captured in the timeless quote "If serving is below you, leadership is beyond you.".
This powerful quote, while its original author remains unknown, gained significant traction in leadership circles during the early 2000s as the concept of servant leadership became more prominent in business and organizational culture. It particularly resonated with leaders who recognized that true leadership isn't about position or power, but about the willingness to serve others. The quote has become a cornerstone teaching point in many leadership development programs and is often referenced by influential leaders like Ken Blanchard and John Maxwell to illustrate the fundamental connection between service and leadership.
To put this principle into action, consider starting each day by asking "How can I serve my team today?" This might mean taking on some administrative tasks to help a overwhelmed colleague, staying late to help complete a project, or simply being available to listen when team members need support. In meetings, focus on understanding others' needs before expressing your own views. Make it a habit to regularly ask your team what resources or support they need to succeed, and then work diligently to provide those resources.
Biblical Reference: Mark 10:43-44 - "But whoever would be great among you must be your servant, and whoever would be first among you must be slave of all." This passage follows Jesus' teaching to His disciples about true leadership, directly challenging their worldly understanding of authority and power. Jesus demonstrates that Kingdom leadership operates opposite to worldly leadership - the greatest leaders are those who serve most.
Call to Action: Take time this week to evaluate your leadership approach through the lens of service. Ask yourself these questions:
What specific actions am I taking to serve those I lead?
How am I putting others' needs before my own?
Where might my pride be preventing me from serving effectively?
What small act of service could I perform today?
Who in my sphere of influence needs my support right now?
Let's schedule a discovery call to discuss how you can develop a more service-oriented leadership style and create an action plan for implementing these principles in your specific context. We can work together to identify opportunities for service that align with your strengths and leadership role.