In today's world, it's easy to spot the individuals and organizations leveraging their power and influence for self-serving, transactional gains. They participate only when there is something tangible in it for them, often intentionally hurting or punishing those who are different or marginalized, and all in an attempt to expand or maintain power. This behavior, almost like a sport, contrasts sharply with leaders who understand they are part of a larger, interconnected world, and who recognize that every human being needs help at various times—no one is an island. Even the concept of "self-made" is almost comical because the reality is no one ever built anything alone, it always takes other people and resources.
The Self-Serving Leader
Self-serving leaders and organizations prioritize their own gain over the collective good. They measure success by the amount of wealth they accumulate or the positions they achieve or the size or growth of the organization. This mentality fosters environments where people are pitted against each other, creating divisions and perpetuating inequality. The focus is on "me" rather than "we," and decisions are made with a short-term, self-centric mindset.
Such environments often breed a culture of fear and mistrust. Employees and citizens alike feel the pressure to compete rather than collaborate, to hoard rather than share. The result is a fragmented society where the pursuit of individual success undermines the well-being of the community.
My point is NOT that there is anything at all wrong with success, however one wishes to measure it. Or that one doesn't deserve to be handsomely rewarded for their achievements. I celebrate seeing others succeed, at all levels and backgrounds. The point here is whether self-centered gain should be the sole or even primary reason for everything completed each day.
The Community-Centered Leader
In stark contrast, community-centered leaders understand that true power comes from serving others. They focus on the good of the whole, fostering environments where collaboration, empathy and mutual support are paramount. These leaders build legacies not on how much they have, but on how much they have helped others. They are remembered for their contributions to their communities and their country, for their efforts to uplift those around them.
Communities led by such individuals thrive. Citizens feel a sense of belonging and responsibility towards one another. They work together to solve problems, support those in need and create a culture of inclusion and respect. The focus is on building lasting, positive impact rather than short-term gains.
Why the Shift to "Me" from "We"?
In recent years, several factors have contributed to the shift towards a more self-centered approach:
1. Economic Pressures: Increasing economic pressures and uncertainties have led many to prioritize their own financial security over collective well-being.
2. Technological Isolation: The rise of technology and social media has, paradoxically, made people more isolated. Virtual interactions often lack the depth and empathy of face-to-face connections, fostering a more self-centered outlook.
3. Cultural Shifts: Cultural narratives celebrating individual achievement and material success over communal values have taken root, influencing behavior and priorities.
4. Political Polarization: Political divides have heightened, leading to a culture of "us vs. them" rather than "we're in this together."
5. Media: The media has also played an outsized role in creating echo chambers for fanning the flames of division, bigotry and hatred. In the relentless pursuit of clicks and revenue, many media outlets amplify misinformation and manipulate narratives, exacerbating societal divisions and fostering an environment of distrust and hostility. This shift towards profit-driven reporting undermines the core values of responsible journalism, contributing to the pervasive "me" mentality by promoting fear and antagonism rather than understanding and unity.
Swinging the Pendulum Back to "We"
Reversing this trend requires intentional efforts at multiple levels:
1. Leadership with Integrity: We need leaders who prioritize empathy, service and community. These leaders set the tone for organizations and societies, demonstrating through their actions that the collective good is paramount.
2. Education and Awareness: Promoting values of empathy, collaboration and service from an early age helps build a foundation for future generations. Educational systems and community programs can play a vital role in this.
3. Community Building: Encouraging community engagement and participation fosters a sense of belonging and responsibility. Initiatives that bring people together to work on common goals can help rebuild the "we" mentality.
4. Rewarding the Right Metrics: Shifting what we celebrate and reward—from individual achievements to community impact—can realign priorities. Recognizing and honoring those who contribute positively to society can inspire others to follow suit.
5. Inclusive Policies: Implementing policies that promote equity and support for marginalized groups ensures that everyone has a fair chance to succeed, fostering a more cohesive and supportive society.
The true measure of a leader's legacy lies not in what they accumulate, but in what they contribute. Leaders who serve others and focus on the collective good leave behind legacies that inspire and uplift. By fostering a culture of empathy, service and community, we can shift the focus back to "we" and create a world where everyone thrives.
Follow-Up Question: How can organizations implement practical strategies to foster a culture of community and service within their teams? Share your thoughts and let's learn together.
Leadership can be a blessing or a curse. It can help people rise up to a better life, or it can cause people to fall into despair. Become part of the solution by becoming a high-road leader. A great first step is leadership guru John C. Maxwell's new book,
High Road Leadership: Bringing People Together in a World That Divides. Get your copy today! (#ad)
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