Last week in the article “The Extra Mile”, the reference “servant leader” was used to describe the general manager of a historical hotel where I had one of the most memorable service encounters of my life. So that you can see I keep my promises, let’s explore together what a servant leader typifies.
What comes to your mind as we use the term “Servant Leader?” Do you have a positive reaction to the term or do you believe it describes someone with weak qualities? I have found some of the individuals in my life who are my heroes, own this time-honored and obtainable, guiding value. To be a Servant Leader you recognize those whom you serve are the most valuable asset to your organization. Your job is to enable those you oversee or lead to be able to do their job to the highest degree.
Servant Leaders have many attributes. Some of the most important attributes they have is the ability to inspire, lift and empower those they lead. I love the word inspire. This word means to give breath or life. Think back with me on those who have inspired you the most throughout your life. Hope this brings a smile to your face. These individuals are willing to put others ahead of themselves. They understand if we seek each other’s interest we all prosper rather than just the individual.
Perhaps you are trying to learn how to be a Servant Leader but are afraid you are giving up control. The highest form of control is self-control. When you exercise self-control, you have the ability to determine how you will react in any given situation. Let me share with you an experience by Frank Koch from The Naval Institute magazine, “Proceedings.”
Two battleships had been on training assignments at sea for several days in extreme weather conditions. Frank Koch was serving on the lead battleship and was standing watch on the bridge as nightfall came. Due to poor visibility and patchy fog the captain remained on the bridge overseeing all the activities.
Shortly after dark, the lookout on the wing of the bridge reported, “Light, bearing on the starboard bow.” The captain asked, “Is it steady or moving astern?” Lookout replied, “Steady, captain,” which meant we were on a collision course with the other ship. The captain then ordered the signalman, “signal that ship: we are on a collision course, advise you change course 20 degrees.” Back came a signal, “advisable for you to change course 20 degrees.” The captain said, “I’m a captain, change course 20 degrees.” “I’m a seaman second class,” came the reply. “You had better change course 20 degrees.” By that time, the captain was furious. He spat out, “I’m a battleship. Change course 20 degrees.” Back came the flashing light, “I’m a lighthouse.” The battleship changed course.
Lighthouses don’t move. Guided by principles and laws. We have the privilege of developing qualities. By following guiding principles if developed from our conscience, will not run us to dry ground.
We can become the type of individuals who will inspire others to be the best they can be and provide exceptional service. The more you practice following your conscience the stronger it will become. The result will be one of pleasure and prosperity throughout all areas of your life. True joy comes from positive interactions with others. May you have the courage to listen and obey your conscience throughout your life and to be able to teach others to do the same.
