18 Jul Drawing inspiration from the greats

Nelson Mandela continues to be a source of wisdom and inspiration for our Lead with Humanity immersions, where we support leaders around the world in finding their purpose and leading with humanity. In his honour, as world celebrated his 105th Birthday, we reflect on some of his greatest leadership traits.

1). Courage

Mandela’s legacy was built upon his unwavering courage. He said:

Part of being optimistic is keeping one’s head pointed toward the sun, one’s feet moving forward. There were many dark moments when my faith in humanity was sorely tested, but I would not and could not give myself up to despair.

This optimism would’ve required great courage – courage that he demonstrated throughout his life as an activist and his years in incarceration.

Mandela’s courage inspired the world and energised the nation.

There’s a powerful lesson in what he said he learnt about courage:

I learned that courage was not the absence of fear, but the triumph over it. The brave man is not he who does not feel afraid, but he who conquers that fear.

Courage cannot be taught. Sure, you can learn some skills to manage fear, but true courage comes from experiencing risk and vulnerability. Courageous leaders aren’t afraid to make bold decisions and they don’t fear criticism if they fail. There is an African proverb that says: Pelo tshweu e ntsha lobelo – there is satisfaction with bravery. It takes great courage to make the bold decisions required to succeed in today’s world and to be a great leader.

Courage is a quality that distinguishes great leaders from excellent managers.

2). Humility

In 2000, during an interview with Oprah Winfrey, Mandela said:

If you are humble, if you make people realise that you are no threat to them, then people will embrace you and they will listen to you.

Humility is intrinsically linked to the ability to be vulnerable and open about our insecurities, fears and challenges. Showing vulnerability shows humility – and ultimately reveals humanity. As Mandela described in that interview – it opens the door for meaningful connections.

Humility is knowing that you don’t have all the answers. Humble leaders strive to be better by understanding different points of view. It takes courage to be vulnerable as you lead through uncertain challenging times.

Those who lead with humility, are generally connected to the context in which they lead and can engage their team with empathy. They work hard to understand them and where they come from; they are curious about their context and try to consider the world from their perspective, which helps to inspire them to commit to a shared vision. As a result, their team is empowered, capable and loyal.

3). Generosity

Leadership is a giving thing. In fact, a popular leadership style is called servant leadership – often used to describe Nelson Mandela.

Nelson Mandela, whichever way you look at it, embodies the principle of giving. He gave up his whole life for the freedom of the people of South Africa. Throughout his time prison, he gave hope, perhaps the greatest gift of all. And then he gave forgiveness and dedicated his own freedom to restoring peace. Every decision he made as a leader, was for the betterment of the lives of his people. He said that:

There can be no greater gift than that of giving one’s time and energy to helping others without expecting anything in return.

Unconditional giving is how self-aware, conscious people lead. They answer a call for service, not status. This is the sad differentiator of so many people in positions of authority today.

Leaders who empower give of their time; they provide opportunities, add value, show respect, are receptive to new ideas, have energy, give constructive feedback and recognition, counsel, support, promote hope, show an interest, allow for personal space and inspire confidence and assurance and more.

Mandela has an abundance of leadership qualities that embody what it means to lead with humanity. For us, courage, humility and generosity are three powerful starting points when embarking on the deeply personal journey of discovering your life’s purpose. Becoming the leader you are meant to be, in itself, is a great gift to those around you.

As we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same.