Leadership Value: Learn from the lessons
of false leaders
Over the past few weeks we have had
a conversation about what leadership is and what it means to be a leader. Now
that we know what it is we should be able to recognize what it is not, right?
Unfortunately that is not always a simple thing to do. False leaders are
abundant we see them everyday. Some are in office, some at our places of
business, and some in positions that we depend on to help provide a safe
environment. I have mentioned this before in other Leadership Value posts, but
I really want to hone in on it in this one. For many people it is easy to be a
leader, especially when there is no sign of trouble, anyone can hold the helm
when the sea is calm, is a saying from Publilius Syrus, a freed slave from the
first century BC. He is also credited with saying that a good reputation is
more valuable than money. On both accounts he was correct. As long as things
are good and they are never tested, false leaders are able to have a reputation
that is more valuable than money. It is not until time of need that they are
exposed. We have an obligation to learn the signs and test those that would
lead for the betterment of all those they claim to be striving to lead to a
better position. There is a measure of personal responsibility that everyone
has over his or her own actions, but that is for another post. Beware of those
that steer the ship only in calm water because the sea is not naturally smooth
sailing. There will be turmoil and challenges. Many may try to sell you their
dream, while you supply everything and they supply only the vision. This not a
leader, this person is a shame artist that wants to take advantage of your resources
all the while standing on your back to move to a hire position. They will often
talk of their vision but will seldom have anything of substance to offer you.
If we are to improve our own lot in life and pave the way for others that we
care about we must study from our past mistakes and the mistakes of others and
those lessons should be implemented in a fashion to maximize our growth.
