The Major Attributes of Leadership (#6 of 11):
6. The habit of doing more than paid for: One of the penalties of leadership is the necessity of willingness, upon the part of the leader, to do more than they require of their followers. (from: Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill)
In days past, a society was “ideally” led by the most virtuous and hardest working member … the Prince. Even here in the United States, our leaders historically were men who had proven themselves …effective leaders on the battlefield through acts of courage, valor and self-sacrifice. Somehow, in modern history, this concept has been largely lost. Financial leaders have become those who are the most shrewd, often taking advantage of the weakness of others. Political leaders have become those most effective at raising money and forging alliances with special interest groups. Social leaders have become those most effective at self-promotion. Qualities such as loyalty, kindness, charity and humility become harder and harder to find in our leaders.
I have had the tremendous pleasure and good fortune to be associated with a number of men and women over the years who’s leadership has been of such a fine caliber that the effect has been to elevate those around them, to raise the standard of character of everyone whom they lead so that all are able to share in the wealth and joy of success.
A good leader never asks anyone to do anything they would not be willing to do themselves. However they are also acutely aware that ethical service to their followers also requires a leader to at all times be engaged in activity that is the highest and best use of their time, asking those less capable to fill in the supporting tasks. It is a fine line to walk, for sure, but a Prince who can balance such humility with courageous leadership provides a fine example that motivates our followers; our support system; to give their all in supporting Princely goals, the accomplishment of which makes everyone a winner.