Myself As A Leader: Embracing Servant Leadership

Myself as a Leader: Embracing Servant Leadership

Leadership is a profound journey of self-discovery and social influence, shaping not only the leader but also the community they serve. Among various leadership models, servant leadership resonates deeply with my personal values and aspirations. Rooted in the principles outlined by Northouse, servant leadership emphasizes serving others first, promoting the growth and well-being of individuals, and fostering a sense of community and purpose. This model profoundly appeals to me because it prioritizes empathy, ethical conduct, and a genuine desire to make a positive difference, aligning with my motivation to lead with integrity and compassion.

My admiration for servant leaders such as Mahatma Gandhi and Mother Teresa reinforces my inclination toward this leadership style. Gandhi’s unwavering commitment to nonviolent resistance and social justice exemplifies servant leadership in action. His dedication to serving the marginalized and advocating for peace inspires me to lead with humility and purpose. Similarly, Mother Teresa’s compassion and selfless service to the impoverished exemplify the core tenets of servant leadership. Her life demonstrated that true leadership involves a commitment to alleviating suffering and empowering others, qualities I aspire to embody in my personal and professional life. By studying these leaders, I am motivated to prioritize service over personal gain, nurture empathy, and promote social responsibility within my spheres of influence.

Relating Servant Leadership to My Life

Implementing servant leadership in my daily life involves cultivating qualities such as empathy, active listening, and ethical decision-making. I believe that effective leadership begins with understanding and caring for others’ needs, which fosters trust and collaboration. In my academic and community engagements, I strive to serve as a supportive and empowering figure, encouraging others to develop their potential. For instance, in group projects, I prioritize listening to diverse perspectives and ensuring everyone's voice is heard, embodying the servant leader’s commitment to inclusion and shared growth.

Furthermore, I aim to practice servant leadership by engaging in community service and volunteering initiatives that address social issues. Through these activities, I seek to create a positive impact while demonstrating humility and genuine concern for others. The servant leadership model guides me to lead by example, encouraging ethical behavior, accountability, and moral integrity. It reminds me that effective leadership involves sacrifice and a deep commitment to serving others’ interests, rather than pursuing personal accolades. My goal is to be a leader who inspires trust, nurtures collaboration, and contributes to the betterment of society, reflecting the values exemplified by Gandhi and Mother Teresa.

References

• Northouse, Peter G. Leadership: Theory and Practice. 7th ed., SAGE Publications, 2016.
• Gandhi, Mahatma. The Words of Gandhi. Edited by Richard Attenborough, New World Library, 2001.
• Mother Teresa. Come Be My Light: The Private Writings of Mother Teresa. Edited by Brian Kolodiejchuk, Doubleday Religion, 2007.
• Spears, Larry C. "Tracing the Past, Present, and Future of Servant-Leadership." Servant-Leadership Research Roundtable, 2010.
• Sendjaya, S., & Sarros, J. C. "Practicing Servant Leadership in Today’s Organizations." Journal of Management Development, vol. 30, no. 3, 2011, pp. 261–274.