Whether you're a parent guiding your child, a mentor offering your wisdom, or a student assisting a peer, leadership takes on diverse forms. Leaders emerge from various walks of life. Love the people under your care and foster an atmosphere of joy and gladness at home and at work.
It is inspiring to encounter people and leaders who care for the welfare and success of those under their care. Recently, we had the privilege of visiting Nagaland, a state in northeastern India, and we learned valuable lessons on leadership. Upon our return from the farm, our brother-in-law took us to meet the Chief Minister (CM) of Nagaland. We found ourselves underdressed for the occasion, yet the CM graciously ensured our visit was warm and welcoming, creating a homely and pleasant atmosphere.
What truly distinguishes a leader as the longest-serving head of the state?
We are discussing a political figure, and we would like you to focus on leadership principles beyond the realms of politics and wealth.
Here's a valuable teaching on the importance of empathy, and solidarity, fostering a sense of belonging, and demonstrating strong leadership qualities such as resilience and a deep connection to one's origins. 1. Taking Care of Your Own People:
One of the leadership principles we observed is the commitment to taking care of one's own people. This principle is exemplified by the Chief Minister of Nagaland, Mr. Rio (the longest-serving head of the state), and my sister and brother-in-law living there. It's a principle that seems to have been passed down to his nephew. They share a genuine concern for the well-being of the individuals who serve them. Here's how they manifest this care:
Providing Housing: They ensure that their workers have suitable housing, creating a sense of security and stability in their lives.
Providing Healthcare: They make sure their people have access to medical care when needed.
Supporting Education: They actively support the education of the children in their care.
Financial Assistance: They extend financial support to alleviate the worries and hardships their people may face. This support goes a long way in fostering a sense of belonging and loyalty.
2. Generosity:
Generosity is another trait we witnessed—from sharing resources to offering warm hospitality. During our visit, we experienced firsthand the generosity of our family members. Our experience with my brother-in-law's family was a testament to this spirit of generosity. From the moment we stepped off the plane until our departure, they opened their hearts and homes to us. They generously shared not only material possessions but also their time, food, friendship, and even their drivers and workers to make us feel welcome.
Generosity is not just an act of giving; it's a way of life that positively impacts individuals on physical, social, community, financial, and career levels. It fosters a sense of belonging.
3. Clear Narrative Leadership:
The longest-serving Chief Minister in Nagaland said, "We are all farmers." This simple yet profound statement encapsulates the essence of his leadership. He found resonance in our visit to a farm, as he too had returned to his roots, visiting his own farm and meeting village leaders. This connection to the land and farming is deeply woven into the Naga culture, shaping their traditions, values, and way of life.
His leadership narrative is a powerful testament to the significance of one's roots and how they can shape one's values and actions. His story of humble beginnings, his connection to his village, and his journey from a youth in a political party to a respected leader inspired us all.
A clear leadership narrative has the power to inspire, to ignite passion, and to propel that passion into action. It provides a roadmap for the path forward, reminding us of our origins and the journey that brought us to where we are today.
Leadership, at its core, is about caring for your people, being generous with your resources, and having a clear narrative that inspires and guides. In a world where leadership is often associated with power and authority, true leadership is about responsibility, compassion, and staying connected to your roots. It's about ensuring the welfare and success of those you lead and inspiring them to reach their full potential. It's about taking care of our own, embracing generosity, and crafting a clear narrative that lights the way forward.
Comments