...in which I attempt to identify some of the major characteristics of leaders. Or maybe just one. We'll see.
Motivation is an interesting thing. We are all bidden occasionally to do things we would rather not. These tasks range from the mundane (laundry, bathroom cleaning, etc) to the extraordinary (military service comes to mind...). But there is an internal battle that takes place where one's character is put to the test. These battles are things that most will not see, but will nonetheless impact the shape of a person's life in very real ways.
As I've mentioned before, my son and I have had lengthy and repeated conversations (he'd probably call them lectures) about what motivates people to do things. On (what I would consider to be) the lowest level, there is the slave. The slave performs due to fear of retribution. The only investment in the work comes as the master forces through fear of intimidation, loss of privilege or freedom, or even violence. Regardless, if the task is not completed there will be negative repercussions. So the task is performed with that attitude.
On a slightly higher level, a servant would perform the same task in the hope of some reward. Sometimes this is a financial reward, a special benefit, or unusual favorable consideration for something. The hope of this reward may be realized in the future, but the initial task is performed with an eye towards attaining that privilege or consideration. The reward may even be something as simple as acclaim or favor with the task master. Regardless, it is the reward that is sought - the payoff.
The highest level to me (and there are perhaps many more levels in this spectrum of motivational forces) is love. The friend performs the task because he loves the master.
The nature of the task has not changed. What has changed is the attitude of the one performing the task. As one's attitude changes, the performance of the task also becomes altered. We've seen people who whistle while they strive with difficult tasks. We've seen people who bear with patience heavy loads. And we've seen people willingly sacrifice their own lives for the love of someone or something they felt was better than them.
This highest motivation is not easy to acquire. But once instilled, I believe it can inspire and motivate a person to incredible ability. It is in this way that people's lives are changed - for the better.
The effective leader, then, is able to generate this kind of motivation in those being led. The way to accomplish this is easy, yet profound. It is to love those one leads. This not only sets an example for those being led, it fosters an environment of mutual respect and positive feeling that permeates everything. Problems are easily solved. Respect is engendered. And tasks become easy to accomplish.
I understand and readily admit that this is the ideal. Other forms of motivation are occasionally required. But when dealing with people (rather than focusing on the tasks) if the environment of love and respect is carefully cultivated over a long period of time, occasional lapses are more easily tolerated.
The best way for a leader to demonstrate this love is through service, sincerity, and empathy. Service to those who are being led is a frequently overlooked concern. Yet who has not appreciated the kind word, the leader who will pitch in and help with an effort, and the leaders who lead from the front, rather than direct from the rear? These things must be accompanied with a sincere desire to see the group succeed, as well as a genuine interest in those being led. This interest is an expression of empathy and is most often found in the humble, listening ear of a trusted friend. Because ultimately, the best leaders are friends to those they lead.
Comments