I am a sucker for Native American wisdom. I have discovered so many powerful thoughts and perspectives about leadership, relationships and values through the study of their collective proverbs. One in particular that resonates deeply with me is from the Mohawk. It says, “A good chief gives, he does not take.” This phrase parallels the modern-day concept of Servant Leadership. The Servant Leadership phrase was coined by Robert K. Greenleaf in an essay published in 1970 entitled, “The Servant as Leader.”
As much as we talk about servant leadership in educational circles, religious institutions, business organizations and politics, operating from the traditional default leadership model occurs more often than we care to admit. Talking the talk of Servant Leadership has a “hip” ring to it. Servant Leadership sounds good to the ear and engenders a certain “automatic following” from people who desire to be led by one who understands the power of this concept. And yet, when professed Servant Leaders only talk the talk, the people who would benefit from such leadership if demonstrated consistently, find themselves under the tyranny of the Default Model.
The Default Model depends on Top Down, hierarchical force and pressure. It demands lockstep obedience. It is defined by mindless acquiescence. The Default Model Takes! Let’s face it, in a complicated world where choice can sometimes become a stifling burden, many prefer to be told what to think, feel and do. It simplifies life to a degree . . . that is until they realize that they have no voice and therefore are not heard.
On the other hand . . .
“A good chief gives, he does not take.” The Mohawk understood the power of Servant Leadership long before anyone coined the phrase. The Mohawk understood the detrimental effects of oppressive leadership. They understood the destructiveness of taking. The Good Chief Gives. The Good Chief is a Servant Leader. The Good Chief grows people, develops thinkers, encourages problem solvers and builds other Servant Leaders.
What are some differences between the Default Model and what I will call the Good Chief Model?
The Default Model Takes:
- Personal initiative
- Individuality
- The right to think
- The right to speak
- The freedom to ask questions
- The validation of personal worth
- Credit
The Good Chief Model Gives:
- Direction
- Hope
- Encouragement
- Purpose
- Opportunity
- Freedom
- Credit
My challenge today? Demand that those who lead and preach and educate and govern do so from the Good Chief Model. Demand that they Walk the Walk of the Servant Leader! Further, as often as possible and in every situation you find yourself . . . Be The Good Chief!
Peace!
Mark E. Hundley
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