Leadership Through Service During Challenging Times

“We must be silent before we can listen; we must listen before we can learn; we must learn before can prepare; we must prepare before we can serve; and we must serve before we can lead.

                                                                                                    - William Arthur Ward

The quote above is one I use in every keynote talk I deliver regarding leadership.  I believe that leadership which is fueled by a heart dedicated to serve is one of the most powerful forces on our planet, and one that is most definitely needed during our current state of national emergency in dealing with the coronavirus. 

When we think of our recent history’s most acclaimed leaders; Lincoln, Mandela, King and Mother Teresa, those who made the most profound impact on how we view ourselves and our world, the force behind their missions was always service. 

The service to unity, equality and compassion was the focus of their causes, which is why I believe it connects with us on such a deep level and why these past leaders are so revered today.

In recent times, many of our leaders have led through conflict, divisiveness and vitriol as a means of self-preservation, and use fear as a means of motivation.  With this being the case, one may ask is it even possible to be focused on serving to be an effective leader?

I would argue that given the challenging times we find ourselves in today, focusing on service beyond our entrenched world views and need for self-preservation, is the only way we can show true leadership.

While it may be right to expect leadership through service from our current leaders and elected officials, like anything, a change we wish to see always begins with US and the mindset shifts and the actions (even the small ones) WE are willing to take.

In his book, The Power of Intention, Dr. Wayne Dyer talks about the positive impact of doing, receiving and observing acts of service/kindness on our brains?  He writes,

“Serotonin is the drug that makes you feel good. It’s what all the pharmaceutical companies pump into those wonderful little anti-depressants. ….. When you do something kind for someone else, the person you’re helping has serotonin released in his brain - he/she feels happier. And so do you….. But the most incredible thing is this; studies show that someone observing the act, has an equal release of serotonin.” 

During this time of social distancing and physical isolation, many feel alone and depressed.  Doing acts of service or kindness is not only a great way to make others feel better, but it is a powerful way of showing leadership that positively impacts us and those that are in our immediate sphere. 

If we are going to be contagious about anything, why not do so by leading through service and kindness?

I invite all of us to initiate three practices to enhance our ability to lead through service.

• Set an Intention - As we set clear intentions, opportunities become visible to us.  The Reticular Activating System of the brain magnetizes our awareness on the things we chose to place our attention on (ever want a new car, and after you set that intention, began seeing them all over the road?) The same holds true for setting the intention to serve, we then begin seeing opportunities all around us.

• Slow Down - During our times of home quarantines, slowing down is something all of us may be finding ourselves doing. How many times have you told yourself that you will begin an activity and/or begin a service project or join a service organization, when things “slow down”. Well, here’s your chance.  How can you use this time to not only take care of yourself and your families, but also provide kindness or service to others?

• Take Action.  It takes courage to take the action necessary to lead through service.  Many times, it means getting out of our comfort zones and doing things differently than we have before.  Where is there an opportunity to act and up-level our ability to serve? Could it be one of the following?
  1. Reaching an organization to see how you may serve, even if it is done remotely?
  2. Writing a positive blog or filming a video and posting it on social media that may assist others during this time?
  3. Making your business expertise experience and wisdom available to a small business owner that may be struggling?
  4. Reaching out to a friend or family member just to check in an see how they are doing?

This week, I challenge all of us to experiment integrating these and other service practices and intentions in the areas where you can serve as a leader.  I can guarantee that this will not only be transformational for those you serve, but to you, as well. 

In doing so, you can come to truly realize what so many other great leaders came to fully understand…….

“It is through service that we truly lead.”

Chris Natzke

Black Belt Leadership Speaking & Coaching

PS:  In these times of uncertainty, keeping safe is of the utmost importance.  Download the new eBodyguard Safety App for FREE, as my gift to you, by going to https://ebodyguard.org/protectorseries/