Why do some leaders self-destruct?
People who strive their whole career to advance, achieve, gain, and influence, and once they “arrive,” they become a completely different person. Is it something about the power? The money? The Ego? How does leadership teachings espouse the virtues of ethics, morality, values, and integrity, but they become forgotten or lost once a title or position is achieved? Not forgetting is the quality that separates the leaders from the wannabe’s.
Even if questionable actions and behaviors are not directly job-related, I would argue that once appointed to a leadership role, personal behaviors and professional position become integrated. When your job is to represent the company and constituency of employees both inside and outside the physical walls of the workplace, you are always on stage. There is constant scrutiny to uphold and model the values of the organization and of genuine leadership.
What I have learned from watching leaders struggle is this: leadership is not for everyone, and intelligence, past successes, or tenure are not automatic passes to being an effective leader. To be appointed to lead a group of people is a privilege and, to some respect, a calling. It requires selflessness and a servant-style approach. How can we better assess our own internal motivations to accept the responsibility to serve others and to be a leader?
Perhaps these questions could provide guidance:
- What is motivating me to consider a leadership role?
- What do I hope to achieve or influence due to the new position?
- How do I feel about being “on stage” all the time?
Asking these questions will balance and check our own desires for leadership and determine the motivation behind the desire. Remember that every transaction begins with a relationship. How we interact with our team is a transaction, and our decision or lack of decision is how we display our leadership qualities. What have you found to work or not work with individuals as they transition into leadership roles?
