Even though I’m writing this post on the brink of a primary election, it’s not really about politics. The thoughts are transferable to that realm, but my mental processes were stirred by other experiences.
I’m a conflict resolution professional. I wade around in personal problems and organizational messes on a daily basis. Most often, the challenge to relationships or to the well-being of a group of people is directly linked to leadership.
What if we chose leaders based on elements other than power, prestige, and marketability? What if we looked to the humble servant?
I know. We have a system that rewards loudness and big promises. That reward structure is odd because we generally detest the loudness and the promises are rarely fulfilled. But our history is such, not just in politics, but in our personal relationships.
As you choose who leads you — in politics, in your workplace, in your personal life — consider those who quietly serve and humbly offer what they have. Their power is not based on their position. Yet, their influence is heard far above those who shout loudest.
Choose well.