Leadership as Service

Leaders have different styles and substance. But they're central to sustainable cultures with competitive advantage.

Some are fiery like Victoria Crovo. Others demonstrate subtle strength like Hannah Brickley. But leaders serve organizations in ways that elevate the group. This follows within and outside sports.

Leaders listen. Nelson Mandela attended community meetings as a boy, where his father always spoke last. This taught Mandela to listen, hear a variety of opinions and deliver more nuanced recommendations.

Leaders surround themselves with great people. In Team of Rivals, Doris Kearns Goodwin shares how Abraham Lincoln included political opponents in his cabinet in an effort to maximize both talent and results to preserve the Union.

Leaders make those around them better. Frances Perkins was the first woman with a Cabinet-level position as FDRs Labor Secretary. She fought for both workers rights and against child labor. 

Leaders support teammates. Celtics' great Bill Russell said, "my ego depends on the success of my team." Leaders are inclusive for all members of the team and never "kiss up and kick down." 

Leaders don't whine, complain, or make excuses. Leaders bring energy every day and are the extension of the philosophy and program of their coaches. 

Leaders energize. They energize themselves daily, whether at practice or during games. And they energize teammates, regardless of whether circumstances go their way or against them. 

Leaders sacrifice. In his MVP speech, Kevin Durant shared who pushed him, supported him, and sometimes went hungry so that he didn't. 

Lagniappe. Leaders compete, challenge each other, and take teammates out of their comfort zones. 

Lagniappe 2. Coaches talk about a player's ceiling and their floor.

 

For example, MVB has more than a few players who could be All-Conference, MVP, or All-Scholastic players. That's all well and good, but the players often remembered most are those who helped their team win big games, signature wins. Players like Jen Cain, Rachel Johnson, and Kayla Wyland didn't get as much ink, but earned a State Championship.