#1 need for Leadership ~ John J Arent

I often have been asked about what one attribute I would look for in a Leader.  This is an incredibly difficult task since Leadership has many components.  We have all read countless books on leadership and what it takes to be successful in helping to direct a group to success.  Most people who agree that there are several distinct areas that need to be exemplary.

My assignment was to select ONE…My view is sure to create a good deal of controversy but here it is…

HUMILITY

There are so many references about humility and a great number of them come from the Bible.  Without quoting the particular verse, here are my main reasons for choosing this virtue.

The Golden Rule

“Do to others as you would have them do to you.”

You gain respect by first respecting others.  Sharing and putting yourself second gives us fulfillment.  Most leaders are not afraid to admit their faults.  They are human and the first three letters in HUMILITY share that fact.

Never talk about others in a negative manner.

Conceited and Egotistical talk fuels the fire for discrimination and hatred.  Caring about others and showing it by our words and actions is like an aloe on those burns. Words make or break human relationships. Words can make war or make peace. The words we say have tremendous power as it relates to how the meaning is interpreted in either a good or negative way.

Spreading rumors  is an act of hostility intended to harm someone's reputation. We must avoid the temptation to misrepresent someone's character or actions as an act of revenge or prejudice. “if you do not have something nice to say….don’t say it”

Judging Others

Self-righteousness is very difficult to avoid because it is so much easier to see other peoples faults rather than to acknowledge our own limitations.

Anger and Revenge

The easy way to answer setbacks or disappointments is with anger. It is far more challenging, but much better, to react with understanding and empathy. In this way, we can quickly settle disputes and avoid turning minor incidents into major battles.

Never confuse HUMILITY with weakness.  It is clearly a strength for those who wish to be successful over the long-haul. 

If you agree with this, please forward to those who are your friends and colleagues.  We need more humility at all levels of society today!