The 21 Indispensable Qualities of a Leader - Servanthood

We continue our learning and growing with the lessons contained in John C. Maxwell’s book titled The 21 Indispensable Qualities of a Leader. This book carries the subtitle: "Becoming the Person Others Will Want to Follow".

Everything rises and falls on leadership. And leadership truly develops from the inside out. If you can become the leader you ought to be on the inside, you will be able to become the leader you want to be on the outside. People will want to follow you.

Quality #19 - Servanthood: to get ahead, put others first.

“The true leader serves. Serves people. Serves their best interests, and in so doing will not always be popular, may not always impress. But because true leaders are motivated by loving concern rather than a desire for personal glory, they are willing to pay the price." - Eugene B. Habecker, Author

Servanthood is not about position or skill. It's about attitude.

And the truth is that the best leaders desire to serve others, not themselves.

What does it mean to embody the quality of servanthood? A true servant leader:

1. Puts Others Ahead of His Own Agenda.
   1. The first mark of servanthood is the ability to put others ahead of yourself and your personal desires.
   2. It is more than being willing to put your agenda on hold.
   3. It means intentionally being aware of your people's needs, available to help them, and able to accept their desires as important.
2. Possesses the Confidence to Serve.
   1. The real heart of servanthood is security.
   2. How we treat others is really a reflection of how we think about ourselves.
   3. The Law of Empowerment (The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership) says that only secure leaders give power to others. It's also true that only secure leaders exhibit servanthood.
3. Initiates Service to Others.
   1. Great leaders see the need, seize the opportunity, and serve without expecting anything in return.
4. Is Not Position-Conscious.
1. Servant leaders don't focus on rant or position.
2. If anything, being the leader gave him a greater sense of obligation to serve.
5. Serves Out of Love.
1. Servanthood is not motivated by manipulation or self-promotion.
2. In the end, the extent of your influence depends on the depth of your concern for others.
3. That's why it is no important for leaders to be willing to serve.

“I don't know what your destiny will be, but one thing I know: The ones among you who will be really happy are those who sought and found how to serve." - Albert Schweitzer - Theologian, Philosopher, Physician, Medical Missionay

Bringing it home:

1. Perform Small acts.
   1. When was the last time you performed small acts of kindness for others?
   2. Find ways today to do small things that show others you care.
2. Learn to Walk Slowly Through the Crowd.
   1. The next time you attend a function with a number of clients, colleagues, or employees, make it your goal to connect with others by circulating among them and talking to people.
   2. Focus on each person you meet.
   3. Make your agenda getting to know each person's needs, wants and desires.
3. Move Into Action.
1. Sign up to serve others for six months at your church, a community agency, or a volunteer organization.
2. If your attitude still isn't good at the end of your term, do it again.
3. Keep at it until your heart changes.

Donald G Rosenbarger
Senior Vice President
Delta Companies Inc