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I don't read a ton of books on leadership, because I find them incredibly redundant. But, I am enjoying one right now co-written by His Holiness The Dalai Lama called "The Leader's Way." It just came out a week or two ago, and it is written more for business leaders than students. However, it's interesting to me because it brings together the tenets of Buddhism and capitalism – a combination that requires business people to think and be more intentional about their higher purpose in business.I wanted to share with you one section that I enjoyed in which His Holiness talks about the character of a leader.
Enjoy this excerpt.
Understanding principles and causes. Leaders with character are aware of the duties and responsibilities of their role and of the challenges they face. Leaders should be able to identify the causes of problems and the principles that should be applied to solve them.
Understanding objectives and results. Leaders know the meaning and objectives of the principles they abide by; they understand the tasks they are undertaking; they understand the reasons behind their actions. They know what may be expected in the future as a result of their actions and whether these will lead to a good or bad result. This kind of foresight is important for leaders when they are considering the long-term effects of their decisions on others.
Understanding themselves. Leaders know their strengths, aptitudes, abilities and virtues and are able to correct and improve themselves. They are also aware of their weaknesses and the weaknesses of the (group), and how the (group), in turn, affects its many stakeholder groups. They must be very eager to learn.
Understanding moderation. Leaders practice moderation in speech, work and action. They do not take unnecessary actions merely to satisfy their own egos or accomplish their own ends, but take only those actions that will benefit the organization for which they are responsible.
Understanding the occasion and efficient use of time. Leaders know the proper occasion for actions – what should be done and how – and they perform these actions efficiently. This includes knowing how to plan their time and organize it effectively. Additionally, leaders must have "discernment," the ability to identify the issues that matter most and concentrate on them. It is very important to avoid wasting time on trivial matters.
Understanding the organization. Leaders know that organizations have rules and regulations; they have a culture and traditions; people within them have individual needs that should be dealt with, helped along, and served in the proper way. Good leaders understand not only their own character, but the character of the (group) and their responsibility for developing and nurturing that character, and they should be aware if some aspect of the character needs to be changed.
Understanding people. Leaders know and comprehend differences among individuals. They know how to relate to people effectively, what can be learned from them, and how they should be praised, criticized, advised and taught.
