“Humility does not mean you think less of yourself. It means you think of yourself less.” - Ken Blanchard
In the past two installments of Leadership Notes I touched on a discussion with a friend who had sifted through the various qualities of Leadership and arrived at the personal conclusion that there are two qualities that matter the most for those who lead others: Passion and Commitment.
As I mentioned previously, I have not reached the same conclusion (I think there are more than two qualities leaders need). Yet nevertheless, as always, it has been worth exploring this input from one of my friends who is a respected leader. And it turns out that I am not alone in thinking there is more to leadership than these two core attributes – although Passion and Commitment are certainly in the hunt for consideration as top priorities.
Yet, I am not alone in believing there is more to it. To that point, here is feedback I received from a friend, based on the discussion of Passion and Commitment:
I got to thinking about the qualities that I feel are important and the two that you mentioned are certainly right up there. In all the leadership roles that I have had over the years, I really feel that right there on top should be “humility.” Leaders have to be humble. They may be on top, so to speak, but they aren’t first. Whomever or whatever they are leading has to be first and foremost for one to be recognized as a good leader.
Profoundly wise words. Insight worthy of being considered The Prime Directive for those who lead.
In fact, when I read that feedback my jaw dropped like a fish on a line. That feedback came from a friend who pushes against the current rather than floating with it. And the first thought that came to mind was, “Right on. Shout it from the mountain top!”
Humbly, of course.
And I don’t believe there is anything I can add that would be more worthy of our serious and personal reflection.
Your thoughts?