On leadership during adversity
Given the current events in eastern Europe, my thoughts cannot help but go back again and again to what is going on.
Diplomacy has failed to stop a war. Innocent people will bear the suffering of power struggle between Ukraine and Russia. or Russia and USA/ NATO.
What caught my eye amidst all the political coverage of the crisis, is the epitome of leadership displayed by Ukrainian president. He has done a great job by becoming the light at the end of the tunnel. He embodies what a leader should do. How a leader should be. He is risking his life by staying in Ukraine and refusing to leaving the country to defend it until the last moments.
Such courage and embodiment of values for which he stands for, has become increasingly rare in a world where it is quite common to not walk the talk.
Leadership is at its core about having the service mentality. Serving the people to your best who you are representing. Inspiring them to do their best in whatever field they are working in. Leading by example. Leading with integrity.
Since 2015, the world has seen quite the opposite, as it has witnessed the rise of authoritarian leaders around the world. Or leaders who are against the service mentality and trying to spread misinformation and propaganda.
This can become the blessing in disguise for the leaders around the world who are struggling to find their footing. Leaders, not just in politics but in science, business and art. It will become a symbol for the next generation of leaders who are increasingly finding themselves disoriented due to current fractured state of the world. This is what I mean when I refer to fractured state: increased polarization, reduced belief in facts/ science, rising inequality, rise of authoritarian regimes, broken incentive structure in business world. Young people around the world, find it really difficult to lead themselves. It is a stretch for them to think about leading their community or organization.
Take agency
People like Ukrainian President, renews humanity’s hope that if we stand for what we believe in, then slowly and steadily we will be able to change the world for the better. In his case, he is renewing our hopes in great leadership.
We should not discount human ingenuity and strive to lead a life of integrity.
When the Corona virus (COVID 19) struck the world, it was up to the first responders and scientist to help the humanity get out of its grip as soon as possible. First responders around the world took up the mantle to treat patients, reduce the spread of the virus. At the same time, scientists around the world pushed their limits to come up with a viable vaccine within really short period of time.
We should get inspired from such events and achievements from mankind when in the adversity, people came together. People redefined what is possible.
Keep the flame of hope alive within yourself. Show up. Do your best. Live with integrity.
