Leadership is sometimes referred to as a privilege. I don’t think so.
I ran across a post a few days ago that was talking about the importance of leadership. And they reverentially referred to leadership as a privilege. This author was addressing the idea that leaders need to accept the privilege with humility rather than hubris.
While that’s always good advice, I think the idea of leadership as a privilege may be unintentionally strolling down the wrong path.
Privileges are special rights, honors, or advantages that are granted to someone. Privileges are about preferential treatment. And the notion of a privilege often carries the associated idea that these special rights may not be earned through any special action, skills, or capabilities.
I look at leadership as a responsibility, not a privilege.
To be a leader, you need others who are willing to join you in pursuit of delivering some type of meaningful outcome. They’re trusting that you know what you’re doing. They’re trusting that you’re working – honestly and fairly – toward some common good. When you’re a leader, you owe others your best efforts. You owe them results.
These are responsibilities.
I want a leader who’s focused on what they owe to their followers. Not enjoying their privilege – even if they’re being humble about it.
The difference between viewing leadership as a privilege or a responsibility may be subtle. But I think it’s important. Think of someone you would tag as a great leader. Would you be more likely to describe them as motivated by enjoying a privilege? Or owning an important responsibility?
So when you find yourself in a leadership role, as we all are from time to time, don’t worry about demonstrating humility while enjoying your accomplishments. Focus, instead, on what you owe to those who are counting on you to lead them to a meaningful result.