Learning from John C Maxwell’s “High Road Leadership”: Value All People
Introduction:
Leadership is a virtue that requires extensive skills and unwavering dedication. Through years of experience, John C Maxwell has provided aspiring leaders with insights on how to lead with integrity and competence. His upcoming book, title not yet determined, on “High Road Leadership,” is set to be released in 2024 and is expected to be a game changer for leadership in the modern era. The book focuses on 11 tenets that will help leaders make effective decisions, communicate efficiently, and drive growth.
In this blog post, I will be focusing on the first tenet of the book, “Value All People.” I will explore in-depth the concept of valuing others and the impact it has on leadership.
The first key aspect of “Value All People” is the importance of recognizing the worth of others. Every individual is unique, with their own views, strengths, and weaknesses. As a leader, it is essential to acknowledge their differences and appreciate them for who they are. One way to achieve this is by starting with a 10 on everyone’s head – this means viewing every individual as someone to be valued and respected, regardless of their role or position within an organization. By doing so, leaders create a culture of inclusivity and accountability, which is essential for teamwork and collaboration.
Another vital aspect of valuing all people is the understanding that everyone’s opinion matters. A good leader values the perspective of others, even if it differs from their own. Being open-minded, and actively listening to others is a sign of respect, creating a safe space for healthy debate and constructive criticism. Engaging in dialogue with team members can provide new insights, expand perspectives, and lead to innovative ideas that can elevate an organization to new heights.
One common mistake leaders make is assuming that they know everything better than their subordinates. Assuming that they have a better hold of the situation, and therefore not trusting the potential of their team. This ideology is known as “superiority complex” and is entirely unproductive. It is essential to remember that with a team’s concerted effort, it is possible to achieve more. Leaders, therefore, should value their team and trust that they can get the work done without constant intervention.
It is essential to note that valuing everyone doesn’t necessarily mean being soft. On the contrary, effective leaders can communicate with assertiveness and clarity. Leaders who respect team members also earn their respect and trust, and this trust is critical when it comes to accountability. Teams that trust their leaders are more likely to buy-in to their vision and work towards common goals. Building an effective team takes more than stating a vision and a mission statement. Leaders should also create an environment where team members can communicate and openly express feedback.
Conclusion:
Valuing people is critical for leadership and should be a top priority for all leaders. It not only helps create an inclusive culture but also fosters mutual respect and accountability. John C. Maxwell’s upcoming book on “High Road Leadership,” focuses on at least 11 significant tenets that will help aspiring leaders develop essential leadership skills. The first tenet, “Value All People,” is a powerful concept that can change how leaders view their roles. By starting with a 10 on everyone’s head, listening to all opinions, trusting in their teams’ abilities, communicating with assertiveness, and giving space for feedback, leaders can create a positive, inclusive culture where everyone is empowered to deliver their best.