"Leadership is the gift that helps all other gifts flourish.” – John Jonez
My brothers are both pretty sharp guys. Both are highly accomplished in their respective fields of endeavor. One of them told me he remembered hearing a thought on leadership and sent me the statement he paraphrased, above.
To which I replied, "Right on, Brother John. Right on."
When any of us assumes a leadership role, it is important to answer the question, “Why am I here?” The answer will have several facets, including a clear understanding of the organization’s mission, a sane estimate of one’s own ability, an awareness of our own limitations (humility), and a commitment to help the team succeed.
It is that last point – helping the team to succeed – that is emphasized in the statement from my brother quoted above.
When we realize that our prime directive is to “help all of the other gifts flourish,” many of the functions and attributes of our own highest and best leadership abilities will emerge. And when that occurs, our own gifts will flourish as well.
The result? A winning team effort. Every time.
Thanks for the reminder brother John. Leadership is indeed the gift that helps all other gifts flourish. And you model this well.**
For those reading this, let us know your thoughts…
** My brother John understands leadership. His background includes, among other things, serving as Corporate Vice President, Finance, at a leading international high-tech company prior to his retirement. At a young age.