Robert K. Greenleaf defines the servant-leader as something that “begins with the natural feeling that one wants to serve, to serve first” (2008, p. 15). But what does it mean to serve in a downturn economy that places constraints on leaders to make a profit while asking them to balance people and planet? I’ve always found myself in leadership positions, driven by accomplishment, goals, purpose, and need. At times my leadership roles were purely altruistic, or merely a desire for financial reward. At the core of my quest, I lost track of the purpose of my journey. Was I seeking rewards to benefit self, or was I benefiting self by gaining rewards? Greenleaf suggests that “By clearly stating and restating the goal the leader gives certainty and purpose to others who may have difficulty in achieving for themselves” (p. 17). The purpose of my journey begins by knowing self, following passion, and balancing life, only then can I successfully lead others.
Servant – Leadership: Life/Work Balance
Robert K. Greenleaf defines the servant-leader as something that “begins with the natural feeling that one wants to serve, to serve first” (2008, p. 15). But what does it mean to serve in a downturn economy that places constraints on leaders to make a profit while asking them to balance people and planet? I’ve always found myself in leadership positions, driven by accomplishment, goals, purpose, and need. At times my leadership roles were purely altruistic, or merely a desire for financial reward. At the core of my quest, I lost track of the purpose of my journey. Was I seeking rewards to benefit self, or was I benefiting self by gaining rewards? Greenleaf suggests that “By clearly stating and restating the goal the leader gives certainty and purpose to others who may have difficulty in achieving for themselves” (p. 17). The purpose of my journey begins by knowing self, following passion, and balancing life, only then can I successfully lead others.
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