“With the greatest leader above them, people barely know one exists. Next comes one whom they love and praise. Next comes one whom they fear. Next comes one whom they despise and defy. When a leader trusts no one, no one trusts him. The great leader speaks little. He never speaks carelessly. he works without self interest and leaves no trace. When all is finished, the people say ‘We did it ourselves’.”- 17th verse, Tao de Ching
I spent the better part of a year reading and studying the Tao de Ching. This ancient Chinese book of wisdom is full of the thought provoking verses that were a big catalyst in my personal growth as a human being and as a leader of my organizations and family. My notebook from this study is a hand written journal, where I would write out the verses one by one, spending as much time as I needed on each one, from one day to several, learning what they meant to me. The book is full of thoughts and insights and sketches, and as I read through it now, a year later, I am reminded again of my favorite verse. The 17th verse contains the principles that I strive to live by as I grow as a leader.
To be this kind of leader means setting aside your ego and becoming humble and grateful. It means being a servant leader, knowing that your most important job is to support those who are following you. It means giving credit to them, and taking the blame yourself. It involves empowering and nurturing the people who you lead, while always practicing self control. It is realizing that you have a tremendous impact, and that the little things make the biggest difference. Interfere less- interfere not at all. Be cautious with your words, you cannot know how deeply they can land in the heart of the listener. Give to give, not to get. Listen more, say less. Which brings to mind a favorite poem by the great Sufi poet Hafiz- “Everyone is God speaking, why not be polite and listen to him.”