Philosophy, while equally loved and despised by people all over the world, has a valuable lesson to teach each one of us (yes, even in 2018!). Over the next few weeks, we’re going to be looking back into the corners of Ancient Rome, Greece, and China to examine how Ancient philosopher’s can show us new ways to think about Leadership.
Our first philosopher stems from Ancient Rome. Marcus Aurelius was the Roman emperor from 161 to 190 AD. His Meditations offer unique insights into who he was as a leader of this great Western Civilization.
Marcus believe that people exist to help one another.
Marcus believed that even though there will always be people who seek to harm others and live selfishly, humanity was meant to live in harmony and unison.
He writes,“…We came into the world for the sake of one another,” and within that society, leaders emerge and rise to the occasion. It is the Leaders duty to be the guardian of their followers, the Leader exists for the sake of their followers, and the followers for their Leader.
Interesting food for thought. How can we apply this thinking to our twenty-first century leadership?
Take a moment this week to think about how you can best serve your Team this week. How can you help create a culture that perpetuates the philosophy of existing to help your Followers?
- Maybe it’s sending an encouraging email
- Maybe it’s lunch
- Maybe it’s popping by their office or cubicle to ask about their week and how you can help
Whatever that something is, we urge you to take the 5 or 30 minutes this week, to make a difference in the lives of those whom you Lead.
Middle Seats 