Servant Leadership

This week we are going to look at various leadership styles. I will look at a few that are commonplace within the leadership institution and a few unique styles. Today I want to look at Servant Leadership these won't be deep dives into the styles but more of a general overview and my opinion of the style.

The phrase “Servant Leadership” was coined by Robert K. Greenleaf in The Servant as Leader, an essay that he first published in 1970.  This is from the following webpage Greenleaf Center.  The term "Servant Leadership" has only been around since 1970 but the concept is been around since the beginning of time. Jesus was the ultimate Servant leader in that He was willing to lay down His life for others.

It is that mentality that a leader should have if they want to drive success in their followers. Servant Leadership isn't a me first leadership style. Instead it is a you first leadership style. The leader is always looking for ways to improve and grow those around him/her. They are willing to serve first and lead second. By doing this they really become a leader.

You may have heard the phrase "Do as I say not as I do". A servant leader uses the motto "Do as I do and say". Showing others how to serve is in my belief the ultimate in leadership skills. If you look at the Gospels and read about everything Jesus did it was all about serving. He healed the sick, raised the dead, fed the hungry and washed his disciples feet. He served and the more He served the larger the crowds became who followed Him.

Are you a servant leader? Are you willing to lay down your life for your followers? Do you have what it takes to be the ultimate leader, a servant leader. That is not to say all the other leadership styles are no good or don't work, because they do work. I just believe that Servant Leadership is the best way to lead a group of people. It shows you care about them and not your own special interests.

Go and find a group to serve.