One of the Merriam-Webster definitions of the word “serve” is as follows:
Serve (‘sərv) verb: a) to be of use b) to be favorable, opportune, or convenient c) to be worthy of reliance or trust d) to hold an office: discharge a duty or function
As we frame leadership with servanthood, what does this mean? It means that we, as servant leaders, must be of use to our teams.
In his book, The Servant Leader, James Autry wrote that being useful is “the most important thing you can be as a leader…Another way to think about this is as a resource for your people.”
Being favorable, opportune, or convenient means being supportive at the appropriate time. Be available when needed. Be there for your people. Being worthy of reliance or trust; what an awesome privilege and responsibility! Worthiness is based on action. This isn’t about trust based on position or power. This is trust that is repeatedly earned and strengthened through our behaviors.
Lastly, and I’m so glad this is in the definition, holding an office is a definition of serve. We don’t have the office because we serve; it’s not a reward. We serve because we have the office; it is a responsibility.
In The 21 Indispensable Qualities of a Leader, John Maxwell wrote, “You’ve got to love your people more than your position.”
What words would you use to define servant leader?
Servant leadership relies on the desire of the leader to see potential achievement in those he/she serves which in turn reflects his/her ability to influence others to effectiveness. Just like a mirror you cannot demand the reflection, you can only see honesty in it’s image.
CVV
Christopher – thank you for stopping by L2L and for commenting on my post. I love the mirror comparison – so true! Wishing my reflection looked a little different will not make it so. I must acknowledge what it is and then take the steps necessary to change it.