Episode 06: Servant Leadership
During my leadership journey, I have often been asked to define my leadership style. The more I study, the more I realize how little I know about leadership. The one leadership style or philosophy I come back to time and time again is rooted in how I was raised. I am at my best, and better for those around me when I model servant leadership. This transformative approach to leadership emphasizes serving the needs of others before one's own. It is a concept that has gained significant recognition and is often referenced by leadership experts. Two experts that I am drawn to include Simon Sinek and Stanley McChrystal. In this blog post, we will explore three core aspects of servant leadership, drawing inspiration from Sinek and McChrystal.
Putting People First
At the heart of servant leadership lies the fundamental principle of putting people first. Simon Sinek, in his influential work "Leaders Eat Last," emphasizes this aspect when he states, "Leadership is not about being in charge. It is about taking care of those in your charge." This sentiment underscores the idea that leaders should prioritize the well-being and development of their team members above all else.
By putting people first, servant leaders create a culture of trust, empathy, and support. They recognize that their role is to serve their team, ensuring they have the resources, guidance, and encouragement they need to succeed. Stanley McChrystal, in "Team of Teams," highlights the importance of leaders facilitating an environment where everyone's voice is heard and valued. When leaders put people first, they inspire a sense of commitment and loyalty that drives organizational success.
Empowering and Trusting Teams
Servant leadership is not about dictating every decision or action but rather empowering and trusting teams to make informed choices. Simon Sinek aptly notes, "Great leaders are willing to sacrifice their interests for the good of the group." This philosophy aligns perfectly with the concept of servant leadership, where leaders act as enablers, facilitating their team's autonomy and ownership.
In "Team of Teams," Stanley McChrystal explores the necessity of decentralized decision-making in today's complex world. He emphasizes that leaders must trust their teams to make decisions on their own and adapt quickly. By doing so, they promote agility and resilience. In essence, servant leaders empower their teams to be their best selves, fostering a culture of innovation and accountability.
Leading by Example
Servant leaders don't merely delegate responsibilities; they lead by example. Simon Sinek encapsulates this notion when he states, "Leadership is not about being in charge. It is about taking care of those in your charge." Leading by example means demonstrating the values and behaviors you expect from your team members. Servant leaders model the way, inspiring their teams to follow suit.
Stanley McChrystal highlights the importance of leaders being adaptable and willing to learn alongside their teams in "Team of Teams." Leaders who lead by example embrace a growth mindset, acknowledging that leadership is a journey of continuous improvement. By doing so, they motivate their teams to embrace change and pursue excellence.
Conclusion
Servant leadership is a compelling leadership philosophy that revolves around prioritizing others, empowering teams, and leading by example. Simon Sinek and Stanley McChrystal's insights on leadership serve as powerful references that reinforce the significance of these aspects in servant leadership. By embracing these principles, leaders can create environments where individuals thrive, organizations excel, and a culture of selflessness and service prevails. Servant leadership is a pathway to excellence that can lead to lasting success and fulfillment for both leaders and their teams.