Timeless Truths The Best Leaders Follow
We live in a world that is constantly changing. Today, the pace of change is accelerating, driven by technology, politics, culture, and even economics. This rapid transformation demands that leaders-whether in corporate settings, education, or even parenting-develop new skills that differ from those needed in the past in order to successfully guide their teams through contemporary challenges. Nevertheless, there are timeless principles that leaders need to follow, regardless of the situation, if they want to achieve success.
Timeless truths are enduring principles that withstand the test of time across cultures, geographies, and generations. These principles do not change.
After retiring, my wife and I decided to downsize our home. That meant a massive purging of accumulated “stuff” from years gone by. We separated items into three piles: Keep, Donate, and Trash. One morning, I focused on clearing out my home office. By lunchtime, I had managed to sort through half of the room. My pile of items to keep was growing while my pile of items to trash seemed anemic. I found that purging was much easier when it wasn’t my belongings. I confronted a timeless truth: It’s difficult to let go of things to which we are emotionally attached. This reality has always been true and will likely always be true.
Just as there are timeless truths in life, there are unshakable leadership truths. They are simple but enduring. The most effective leaders follow these truths.
Leadership truths provide a foundation for the development of great leaders and a navigation aid towards success. They also offer guidance to aspiring leaders.
12 Timeless Leadership Truths
Here are a dozen essential leadership truths we should always remember.
Great leaders embody servant leadership, which should be the default approach for those of us who are Christ-centered. Here are the truths they adhere to:
- Be ready and willing to serve others. Lead from the heart with compassion and empathy.
- Put others first. Prioritizing the needs of others can create favor that positively impacts your career and other aspirations.
- Have a positive disposition towards others. This includes greeting others pleasantly, being quick to express gratitude, and offering affirmations.
- Don’t try to do it alone. Embrace inclusion. Your language should reflect a focus on “we,” “us,” and “our” rather than just “me,” “myself,” and “I.”
The most effective leaders are disciplined and adopt the following principles:
- Lead from the front. Leaders guide their teams and provide direction. They are also willing to jump into the trenches and assist with less glamorous tasks when needed.
- Embrace change and respond with agility. Leaders must help their organizations navigate the uncertainties brought by change and chaos.
- Learn from mistakes. Every leader will make mistakes over their career. The most effective leaders take accountability for their errors and use them as opportunities for growth.
- Cultivate a passion for learning. A common trait among the best leaders is their desire to improve continuously. They strive to be better tomorrow than they are today.
Impactful leaders possess clear values and high integrity.
- You can make a difference. An African proverb says “If you think you are too small to make a difference, try spending a night with a mosquito in your room.” That one tiny mosquito can keep you up all night!
- Decisions are easier when core values are clear. Core values serve as a compass for integrity and character. When those are clear, some decisions that may seem difficult become easier.
- Always say what you mean and mean what you say. That means being authentic and committed.
- Credibility is key. If you are not credible, people will struggle to believe in you. Trust is built on credibility, and people tend to follow those they trust.
These timeless principles should guide aspiring leaders and inspire others. While the pace of change around us seems to accelerate rapidly, these truths of leadership remain constant, just as they have for centuries.
Great leaders are intentional. They practice servant leadership, remain discipline, and uphold clear values and integrity. If you aspire to be a great leader, start by embracing these essential truths of leadership.
Empowered Leader Reflection
What other timeless leadership truth can you add to the list?
Please share your thoughts with us below.
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