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His book explores “26 Words to Lead By.”
This session’s word is NOBLE.
NOBLE
Noble – of an exalted moral or mental character or excellence; admirable in dignity of conception, manner of expression, execution
“A noble person attracts noble people, and knows how to hold on to them.” - Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
You would not typically think of nobility as a characteristic of leadership. I say this because I firmly believe that leadership is not a title or birthright; it is action and relationship. But the definition of noble embodies exalted character and admirable expression and execution. Sounds like what we need in a good leader.
Perhaps it is as simple as the distinction between class and crass. I don’t think anybody would dispute that legendary UCLA basketball coach was a class act. He lived by the motto, “You can’t live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you.” He made everyone around him a better person and instilled in them a desire to excel.
The noble leader does not disparage others and does not take the cheap shot.
“There is nothing noble in being superior to your fellow man. True nobility lies in being superior to your former self.” - Elijah Wood
Noble Jumpstart:
- Dress the part and speak the part.
- Learn to shake hands and make meaningful eye contact.
- What is your higher purpose?
Noble is not about sporting a crown, or riding a horse with an entourage of knights, or even wearing fancy clothes. It is about helping someone else simply because it is the right thing to do. It may be as simple as holding the door open for someone with their hands full of boxes, or leaving the parking space near the door open for someone who needs it more than you, or giving clear directions when asked by someone from out of state (even a Yankee). Let’s choose to act in a noble manner today and every day!
Donald G. Rosenbarger
Senior Vice President
Delta Companies Inc
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