Importance of a leader focusing on the needs and interests of others

Leadership and vocation coming together hand in hand was eye-opening when I first read the article, “Leadership as a Vocation. “…leadership can be thought of as a process of exercising influence over others in order to achieve a common goal (Northouse, 2004). I agree with Northouse’s statement, leadership should be a passion not a position or title one plays as a part or task. The person should have the desire not just an ability or skill to lead. I like that it states leadership should be to accomplish something positive for the common good by improving the individual. Exercising influences is the key to leadership but there are some people in positions that take their skill for granted. There are influencers that use their skill unnecessarily. Selling people things that are not really needed is an example. This is not making the individual better, this influence is fueled by money. I do believe that we each have the capacity to enrich another person’s positivity. The action doesn’t have to be grand, it can be as simple as being kind to a stranger. When we are kind to one another, we influence others. “the Bible offers up the image of the good shepherd, the one who lays down his life for his sheep, as the most perfect model of leadership” (John 10:11). We don’t have to literally lay our life for others, we just need to treat others kindly and help others when we are able to.

Northouse, P. G. (2004). Leadership: Theory and practice (3rd ed.). Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage.

great to hear that you have grown to appreciate the importance of a leader focusing on the needs and interests of others. In my opinion, leaders should focus on the growth and development of their people. While leaders are focused on people, managers are more focused on the work. I find that truly effective leaders follow the 80/20 principle. An effective leader spends about 20% of their time focusing on “self” and 80% focused on “others”. The 20% doesn’t mean it is not important. In fact, just the opposite. It is very important. Leaders need to ensure they take care of themselves. When they don’t, the 80% will be severely impacted. That said leaders should make sure they take time for themselves, so they can spend the majority of their time focused on those they serve. Does that make sense? I am interested in getting your thoughts