The concept of a servant nature is a prevalent theme and distinguishing feature in the servant leadership literature. Robert Greenleaf believed that the desire to serve comes from within and that inner feeling is what leads one into leadership.
During the late 1960s and early 1970s, Greenleaf’s focus was on colleges and universities and the campus turmoil that was occurring. It was during this time that Greenleaf read Hermann Hesse’s novel, The Journey to the East. The novel was a campus best-seller and Greenleaf thought it might provide him with insight for students. Instead, it proved to be a catalyst for synthesizing all of his thoughts and ideas on leadership and became Greenleaf’s inspiration for his first essay on servant leadership.
The story tells of a secret society (the League) setting off on a very unique and mythical journey. The central character is the servant, Leo, who not only carries out the daily chores but also nourishes the League with his uplifting spirit. When Leo disappears, the League can function no longer and the journey is forsaken. After years of wandering aimlessly, the narrator of the story is reunited with Leo and taken to the League where he learns that the president and spiritual leader is Leo, the servant. Greenleaf’s contemplation and analysis of Hesse’s story brought him to a critical and foundational insight about leadership: great leaders have a servant nature; they are servants first.
If great leaders are first called to serve, we must examine our motivations to determine WHY we are leading. Is it because we truly desired to serve? Are we merely doing what we believe others expect of us? Did we do this because it would look good on our resume? Are we seeking notoriety? Is it an ego thing?
Take a few moments for self-reflection and really determine your personal motivation for leading … what got you where you are today – or – what is driving you toward the direction you think you desire? While reflecting, also contemplate what is important to you … what are your most deeply rooted values. Ask yourself: What do I believe in and hold to be good and true?
With a solid understanding of what you believe in and what really drives you, it becomes clearer how you might personally be called to serve. Think of the leadership roles you have had in the past, hold now, or desire for the future … how do those roles align with your values? Are you following your heart’s desires? If so, that is wonderful and you are certainly on an appropriate path for you. However, if not, what can you do TODAY to correct this course? How can you make even small shifts in your direction to help you become aligned with your core values? Take a moment and write down some ideas – even better – make a to do list for today, this week, this month, and this year – then take ACTION!
References:
Greenleaf, R. K. (1977). Servant Leadership: A Journey into the Nature of Legitimate Power and Greatness 25th Anniversary Edition
Hesse, H. (1956). The Journey to the East
References:
Greenleaf, R. K. (1977). Servant Leadership: A Journey into the Nature of Legitimate Power and Greatness 25th Anniversary Edition
Hesse, H. (1956). The Journey to the East
