“The world is in desperate need of a new leadership model. Too many leaders have been conditioned to think of leadership only in terms of power and control. But there is a better way to lead—one that combines equal parts serving and leading.”-Ken Blanchard
Growing up, I was a timid young lady. People would never believe that about me today. My church provided me with many opportunities to learn about leadership and service. It felt natural to serve. I am blessed to have been guided by so many to help me be the person I am today.
I began with a quote from one of my favorite authors Ken Blanchard who helped me grow as a leader. Service leadership best describes my approach. It is not a leadership style but a behavior.
As a servant leader, you’re a “servant first.” The focus is on the needs of others before you consider your own. Working with others to provide them the support they need, seeing their perspective, and involving them in decisions can support building a sense of community. Individuals feel validated when we listen and take the time to understand all areas.
“Leaders who want to build a culture of trust, responsibility, and mastery need to share information with their people, especially during difficult times.”-Ken Blanchard
One of the characteristics you will find in a Service Leader is hope. Leaders maintain hope in difficult situations. They bring encouragement and believe that better times are ahead. They are looking at situations as opportunities for solutions. Hope is what they bring.
Take a look at your leadership. What kind of leader are you? What kinds of leaders do you have around you? What leadership do you believe we need at this time?
Building hope, serving others, and working for solutions together brightens the future in my opinion. I believe in providing our children with models of leadership and opportunities to be leaders. “Education is something we do with children, not to them.”-Brenda Yoho
Thank you for being part of the solution daily.