Recently, I was in a discussion with a colleague, that reminded me of a concept that I teach on a regular basis. It has become so much of a part of what and who I am, that I forget to think how often I apply it in my daily life. The concept is this; a good teacher, with very few exceptions, does not come up with a “one of a kind” idea, but rather knows enough about what has occurred in the past, to adapt previous successful solutions, to current problems. This is one reason why I am always using concepts that have been developed by others, and using them in my life.
One of the best books I have ever found on leadership is the “21 Irretrievable Laws of Leadership” by John Maxwell. His observations on leadership characteristics are extremely accurate. Often, we as leaders forget how important influence is when “getting others to do what we want them to do, willingly.” We can look at so many examples of this concept and it’s accuracy, but Maxwell, in his book, uses Princess Diana and Mother Teresa. These are great examples, although it is harder to use them with younger people, because of the generation gap. They do not typically understand what these two women truly accomplished in their life times. So we need to find other examples so that the concept can be better understood. One of the best philosophical debates to get into is whether art influences life, or life influences art. In the aspect of leadership, I love the examples from “Sister Act, and “Sister Act 2: Back in the Habit”. Deloris Van Cartier (Whoopi Goldberg), a lounge singer, witnesses a murder by her married boyfriend, who owns a casino. She is placed in a convent, to protect her until she testifies in court, as Sister Mary Clarence. After several mishaps, she eventually is placed with the choir, and is very quickly voted as the new leader. Throughout the movie you see her over and over again, influencing others to be come a stronger leader. This is accomplished by her words and actions; but always doing what a true leader does; thinking of others first. A true leaders is always doing what is best for those they lead, which in turn, is the best for them. Something that is seldom considered by a positional leader. Positional leaders and true leaders have respect from those they lead, only a true leader has the trust of those they lead.
True leaders will most often realize that they cannot lead without great influence. To gain influence requires good character. This means that you are trustworthy; defined by honesty, ethics, and defined standards. Influence comes by going down a successful path, others will follow, as this meets their goals as well. Influence is a skill that comes from great self discipline, it requires self control. Controlling emotions, the words that are used, and attitude. Being positive with words and actions that are the same, is a sign of a great leader. Self reflection is the only tool that a true leader has to influence those they lead. Developing these skills better than anyone else, will give you the advantage of becoming a true leader to others.