OK, so maybe I am watching too much television news lately…or is it a valid concern? Namely, people in leadership increasingly appear to be “in it for themselves” rather than leading for the sake of those who depend on them to lead.
The headlines of late are filled with examples of leaders who seem to prioritize as the principal objective “to make a name for themselves,” or who are seeking to maximize personal financial gain, or who dodge responsibility for their actions, blame others for mistakes, and so forth. These issues seem to surface of late in reports of company CEO’s, professional sport coaches, government employees, political leaders, "inspirational" public speakers, and even non-profit leaders - far too often.
What has been lost in all of this apparent self-seeking, self-protective behavior?
Benevolence.
There is an old word in the English language that at one time was held up as the icon of suitable behavior for those who held positions of leadership: benevolence. And this is the original American definition of that word: Benevolent: Having a disposition to do good; possessing love to mankind, and a desire to promote their prosperity and happiness... (Source: Noah Webster, American Dictionary of the English Language, 1828).
There was a time when those in leadership aspired to lead for the sake of those who they led; they wanted to lead out of a personal commitment to exhibit the highest and best regard for others; to display a selfless or even sacrificial commitment to promote the welfare of those affected by their decisions and behavior.
Benevolent leadership.
To what should we personally aspire in our own leadership responsibility? Do you know examples of truly benevolent leadership? If so, share the good news…
…or better yet, make it.