When you think of student-athlete, what comes to mind? The goal of the term is to remind us that these young men and women are students first, athletes second. The same thought process can be applied to servant-leaders. The concept is wrapped around being a servant to others first, which then may vault an individual into a leadership role. Focusing on leadership without the preface of servanthood compromises the true effectiveness and potential of the servant-leader.
One of the tenets of servant-leadership is action born out of love. The Servant by James C. Hunter helps remind us of how the Biblical concept of agape’ love is really at the heart of leadership; patience, kindness, trust, hopefulness, and service. If we approach leadership first through the path of service, the journey will result in success.
Consider the Greenleaf Center for Servant-Leadership as a resource if you are interested in learning more about servant-leadership and its application in your personal and work life. Robert K. Greenleaf established the organization in 1964, planting the seed for the modern era of servant-leadership. The non-profit Center is a great resource for books speakers and conferences to help you explore and apply the concept of servant first leadership. I have several books and love them!
Please reply and tell me how approaching your role as a “servant first” impacted your role as a leader. I would love to be inspired by you and your experiences!
