Defining Your Values #7
The term, “Servant Leadership” may seem unnecessary, but it draws a refreshing distinction in motivation. As Robert K. Greenleaf notes, “The servant-leader is servant first, it begins with a natural feeling that one wants to serve, to serve first, as opposed to, wanting power, influence, fame, or wealth.”
I really value service and leadership. Since I was elected President of my 4th grade 4-H Club, I have served in many roles of leadership. Along the way, I have found that the quest to serve and to lead provides limitless challenge and joy.
Service. To put yourself in the shoes of another person, to consider someone else’s perspective, and to attempt to provide help, hope and solidarity…this is service. Whether delivering meals, tutoring, or orchestrating a massive fundraiser to multiply the efforts of thousands to serve the needs of thousands more, service always has its focus outside of self. The Rotary motto, service above self, captures this notion well. You may engage in service through an organized effort or by walking across the street to offer encouragement. In whatever ways you seek to serve, the world needs your efforts.
Leadership. Max de Pree reminds us, “The first responsibility of a leader is to define reality. The last is to say thank you. In between, the leader is a servant.” Leadership comes in many forms and it is desperately needed in every arena of life. Reminding us of our mission, pointing to a better way and bringing out the best for a worthy cause, leaders arrive like a breath of fresh air. Yet, they also bear unseen burdens and constantly grapple with complex challenges. Still, courageous leaders remind us that it is always about the mission and the people.
How can you exercise servant leadership in your corner of the world today?
Worth Repeating
Serving others prepares you to lead others.
-Jim George
