Service and Humility: The keys to values based leadership

Service and Humility: The keys to values based leadership

Service and Humility are two of the most unappreciated virtues needed for truly effective leadership. Here’s what I mean by this. None of us, and I mean, none of us, has gotten where we are in life on our own! Doesn’t matter what your title is, what industry you’re is in, if the business is a for profit or non- for profit, small business or a large corporation, all leaders need to recognize this reality.
We all stand on the shoulders of those who have gone before us. All of us!! Whether those shoulders belonged to a parent, teacher, coach, friend, colleague, someone at work, etc., we gleaned insights, knowledge, wisdom, values, morals, self worth, faith etc. and because of that interaction and experience they still consciously or un consciously affect every decision you make.
If you think that you got where you are in life on one’s own, you’re a fool. If you really believe that you are where you are in life on your own, your ego is way out of whack.
When was the last time you thanked one of those people who had a positive influence on you? How about your best teacher, an involved parent, an insightful coach, a best friend, clergy, etc.? If you haven’t yet, please don’t waste any more time, thank them now. Being grateful is a key component of service and humility.
Once we come to understand that we stand on shoulders of those who have gone before us, humility follows and in that humility, service to others needs to be the natural outcome.
Here’s the real leadership test .
As you recognize and appreciate that you stand on the shoulders of others, are your shoulders strong enough to support those who follow you?